There is a really good and easy to use firewall program available *free of charge called "ZoneAlarm". You can download the free version (or purchase the "pro" version) here:
Zone Labs siteWhen you install the program, it will run a brief (7 screens, I think) tutorial about using ZoneAlarm. Then it will setup some permissions that are standard, like your Web browser, for instance.
What I generally advise my clients about the "Popup" permission windows is this:
Click "Yes" if:
If you've clicked on something, or opened a program, and the permission window opens, it is most likely necessary to say "Yes" in order to comply with what you just clicked. If in doubt, click "Yes" but don't check the "remember" option.
Click "No" if:
If you haven't clicked on anything, and a permission window opens, it is probable that you should click "No" on the permission window. Since you didn't "activate" anything, the program seeking entry may be something you want to block. If the same window popups up again and again for the same application, then you can look it up (within ZoneAlarm) and decide if you want to allow or disallow the entry to your system.
You can always go back into the program to change your selections.
For sure though, any broadband (DSL - Dedicated Service Line - or Cable Modem) must have a firewall setup. I would recommend it for dial-up users too, but I don't think it is quite as critical as with a broadband connection.
You can look at the ZoneAlarm users community forum for more information.
Click HereThere are other good firewalls available, too. ZoneAlarm is just the one I'm most familiar with and recommend to my clients.
*The free version is for home users only. Businesses will need to get the Zone Alarm Pro. For a home user, I think the free version is plenty sufficient. Some of my clients have purchased the pro version mostly because they appreciate Zone Labs for providing the service and want to "repay" the company.
About the DSL...If I were setting up a broadband connection, and I had a choice between DSL and Cable, I would pick the cable because I think it is easier to use for the average home user. This assumes that the price is the same and the providers are equally good companies. If my only broadband choice were the DSL, I would take the DSL without question.
Assuming you can justify the increased cost of broadband, I think you'll be very happy with it. The speed and convenience are definitely worth it, in my opinion.
Another possible option that may be available in your area is a "Lite Speed" connection. This is a cable setup, but at a reduced speed. Here in Anchorage the cost for this cable alternative is only about $2.00 per month more than AOL or other nation wide ISP offers ($24.95). The term "Lite Speed" is a brand name, but it would come from a DSL or Cable provider, so when you inquire about DSL or cable, you can ask if they offer any lower cost options.
I hope something here helps!
I hope yours is a great day!
[This message was edited by Dwight on 08-10-03 at 05:33 PM.]
I am thinking about gettting DSL, and I knew someone who had DSL, so, I know how it works and what it does and all that. However, I hear that since the circuit is always open, weather you are online or not, it enables hackers to get stuff off of your harddrive. I've heard that a firewall can help protect against this, but, that a firewall can also make harmless websites you go to unaccessible to you. So, it sounds like DSL is better...not only for you, but, for hackers. A firewall protects you...a little too much, maybe. DSL sounds unsafe. Is it?
