Firewall

Firewall is somewhat ambiguous term. It basically means any software and hardware system that protects an internal network from outside data that could be harmful to the network, such as a virus sent via the Internet. There are personal and corporate firewalls. What is "good" firewall software? Here is the quote from PC Magazine: "The perfect personal firewall would be inexpensive and easy to install and use, would offer clearly explained configuration options, would hide all ports to make your PC invisible to scans, would protect your system from all attacks, would track all potential and actual threats, would immediately alert you to serious attacks, and would ensure nothing unauthorized entered or left your PC."

Unfortunately, few firewalls are perfect. They tend to "conflict" with other software installed. So here are some tips. Before installing personal firewall software on a Windows XP computer, be sure that the firewall built into Windows XP is already turned off. Never use two software firewalls at the same time - this one is important. Also, completely uninstall one firewall before installing another. Use the vendor’s uninstalling utility or if not available, use the Windows XP add/remove software tool in the control panel. After you install a firewall, do check it to make sure that it is configured correctly. Testing your firewall is the only sure way to tell that your computer is really being protected. Good luck and stay safe!