Firewall hints and tips

Send your tips through as an email to ed@brigglife.co.uk. All responses shall be acknowledged and accredited.

What is a 'firewall'?

A firewall is a software package which controls the flow of information into and out of your computer to and from the internet. It is the first line of defence against hackers.

Most firewall packages rely on the user to tell the firewall which internet 'packets' to allow or disallow through the firewall. The firewall then remembers this as a 'rule' for future use.

A firewall should be backed up by other security measures such as antivirus software and keeping your internet browsing and mail reading software up to date and configured correctly.

Commercial software

There are many packages available but two of the most popular are Norton (www.symantec.co.uk) and McAfee (www.mcafeestore.com).

Free software

Windows XP includes a basic firewall (consult the help system) while users of other versions of Windows can download free firewalls from Kerio (www.kerio.com) and Zone Alarm (www.zonelabs.com).

All information on this page is presented for general guidance only with no inferred or implied warranty. You should seek professional advice if your livelihood or business depends upon the integrity of your computer.