Firewalls Buying Guide
The internet today is not a safe place. As we bank, shop, and even
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:
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'':
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
