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Firewalls Buying Guide

The internet today is not a safe place.   As we bank, shop, and even store media, prying eyes are constantly looking to take advantage of novice users surfing the internet on unsecured connections without realizing it.  Is your connection secure? Sometimes there's no telling.  That's why many don't risk it and use a firewall to shield themselves from the dangers of the internet.  Use this guide to protect yourself from unauthorized access to your computer, unless you want someone looking through all your goodies without your permission.

Types of Firewalls

Firewalls can be divided into two major categories: hardware and software.

  • Hardware firewalls block access to your computer using electronics to filter all incoming/outgoing traffic.
    • Used mainly by businesses or people with home networks that have more than three clients. 
  • Software firewalls, commonly included in internet security suites, filter inbound connection attempts using a database of known exploits hackers will use to gain access into your system.

Software

Here are the three top-rated software firewalls:

ZoneAlarm Pro 

Anti-spyware and ID theft protection are integrated into this proven personal firewall that uses rootkit technology to keep you in control of your computer.

Agnitum Outpost Firewall Pro 

This firewall is easily configurable for novices but also offers loads of advanced protection features for experts.  Outpost also boasts resource-friendly software that doesn't sacrifice security.

Norman Personal Firewall 

Norman Personal Firewall plays nice with other security software and uses port stealthing technology to hide your computer's presence on the internet.

Hardware

Here are the three top-rated hardware firewalls.  Remember, you should only consider purchasing a hardware firewall if you own a small business or have a large home network:

Juniper Networks SSG 5 

  • Exceeds the normal features for small-to-medium size businesses that need hardware networking and security protection.
  • Top-notch performance and licensing.

Check Point Safe@Office 500 

  • Easy to setup and administer.
  • Excellent wireless range.
  • Traffic shaping capabilities.
  • Intrusion prevention.

ESoft InstaGate 404e 

  • Powerful configuration features.
  • Easy set-up and hassle free usage.
  • Excellent small business protection.

Effectiveness

  • Firewalls are deemed effective by subjecting them to various 'leak tests'. These tests check the firewall's ability to block the various ports your computer uses to establish an external connection (e.g. remote assistance, internet, program update checkers, etc.)
    • The firewall is then evaluated based on how many leaks were discovered during testing.
    • Many firewalls are rated based on their level of protection.
  • Generally, hardware firewalls are proven extremely secure, which is why they are a favourite among businesses and government.
    • This is why hardware firewalls are considerably more expensive than software firewalls
  • Software firewalls that are proven the most effective are typically 'stand-alone', meaning they are not part of any other program, like a security suite.
  • Although they are extremely effective, software-based firewalls are known to consume system resources due to the constant port monitoring.

No-Fuss Firewall Tips

  • When first setting up your firewall, be aware of the various programs you have installed that require an outbound connection.
    • Chances are, unless the firewall recognizes these programs, it will block them by default, possibly causing them to not work as they should.
  • Do a complete scan of your system for viruses, spyware, ad-ware..etc BEFORE installing your firewall.
    • This ensures your system's integrity cannot be breached from inside the system, or 'behind' the firewall.

Related Products/Guides

Antivirus and Internet Security Buying Guide

Windows Vista 

Network Switches 

Registry Software 

Routers 

External Links