You'll find your access to internet a little more complicated now. The first time you run any internet related program after activating Microsoft firewall, it will alert you again and ask you if it is OK for your Internet Browser to connect to Internet.

There are some computer security experts have criticized shortcomings of Microsoft’s Windows XP firewall. Thus, there may be other software firewall packages that you may want to look at. Some of other firewall software packages that you may want to look at are: Norton (www.symantec.com), McAfee (us.mcafee.com), and ZoneAlarm (www.zonelabs.com) software firewall packages.

What to look for in a Software Firewall

When choosing a firewall, consider such factors as:

~ ease of use, ~ cost, ~ technical support ~ control of incoming content (such as cookies, pop-ups, JavaScript, ActiveX, etc.), and ~ ability to control firewall for access to more trusted individual websites

Most firewall software packages can do basic port blocking needed to protect against typical virus or worm that try to probe your system (like sasser). Other software firewalls do not have important features like, allowing you to control which websites that you will accept active content (like cookies and pop-ups).

A good firewall program will also alert you when a software application on your computer is trying to connect to Internet. This may help you detect whether a virus has infected your system or whether spyware (software that arrive on your computer without your knowledge) is trying to report your personal profile details.

High Speed Internet Connections Firewall

If you are using a broadband Internet connection, such as cable or DSL, you should use a hardware-based firewall in addition to software firewall. Most of router/hub combinations you can buy for your computer system offer a strong first line of defense against remote probes of your computer. Plus, they are inexpensive, often costing less than $20 after rebates.

Hardware based firewalls generally will not tell you when a program on your own computer system seeks to access Internet. That is why, when you use a hardware firewall, you need a software firewall installed as well.

Which Firewall is Best for Your Office?

Because of number of incoming security threats to your computer are so numerous and serious, key point is that you do have a software firewall, and if you are using a high speed connection, a hardware firewall as well.

ZoneAlarm's firewall is a popular choice for personal use because it can be download and use it for free. That software firewall package may be a good starting point for individuals new to firewall technology.

After you have your computer system secure, you might like to check out some firewall options from, Nonags (www.nonags.com) and PricelessWare (www.pricelessware.org).

It's becoming a better idea to have a firewall, at home and business. It does require extra setup and is another layer of software and hardware to navigate through to connect to Internet, but piece of mind to keep your computer system secure may be worth effort.

Copyright Steven Presar