posted on March 6, 2002 05:02:57 PM
I know this is an ebay forum, but I'm thinking there are some computer saavy people here. I just heard on my local news that people that have cable modems (like me) are prime targets for hackers and it's very easy to hack into these computers. They recommended getting a firewall and turning off your computer when it's not in use. (I don't do this or do I have firewall software - I think when I upgraded to XP Microsoft disabled it). Any suggestions? Is there free firewall software out there online that's compatible with XP? Thanks in advance. Oh, and do you turn your computer off during the day? I don't hardly ever turn mine off - not even at night.
posted on March 6, 2002 05:23:44 PM
If you have the complete Norton AntiVirus package (I forget what it's called), you may already have something that protects your system. You should launch the application and review the settings.
I have DSL from Verizon and used a software-based firewall called BlackICE Defender. I have found it more than meets my needs: alerts, information, reliable updates on a regular basis.
If you want to see what BlackICE is all about, take a look at http://www.iss.net/products_services/hsoffice_protection/blkice_protect_pc.php
It's not that expensive - and it works.
btw - I only use my computer during the day and evening. I shut it down when I shut down.
posted on March 6, 2002 05:36:38 PM
BlackIce and ZoneAlarm are useless against really malicious outfits, but are ok against 13 yr-old AOL types. They cost around $40-50. Instead buy a cable modem router such as the Linksys ($75). A hardware solution is dramatically better, not much more in cost, and has the added benefit of allowing you to hook up 4 or more computers to the cable modem w/o speed degradation.
posted on March 6, 2002 05:45:22 PM
I use a hardware device called a firewall/router. It provides good protection when properly configured. You can leave the PC on with the proper protection in place. The one I have is from LinkSys. I have a network in the house and office with 7 PCs and 1 server attached to it, so protection is a must.
posted on March 6, 2002 07:52:18 PM
Actually I have a Linksys router. I have my laptop and my kids computer hooked up to it. That will do it? I also have Norton antivirus on all the computers. Maybe I'm set then.
posted on March 6, 2002 08:30:24 PM
I use Zone Alarm and am quite happy with it. I just keep the security settings on high and don't allow any connections to be made to my computer or from my computer. The firewall as allowed me to find some spyware that was on my system and trap everything from ftp requests to telnet requests. My computer is connected via an ethernet link, usually on 16-20 hours a day. My personal firewall traps anything that manages to get through the campus fire wall...
posted on March 7, 2002 06:36:41 AM
Hello
I am on DSL, with two computers. I use Norton 2002 and Norton Firewall. Norton 2002 has cleaned up my unit so it doesn’t crash all the time and my firewall has stopped some pretty serious items. I also engage brain before opening e-mails etc. So far I am happy with this product. (Four month trial)
