is windows xp firewall safe enough?
485256
I use the XP firewall and from what I understand, It keep things out but does not block stuff going out.\n\nYou should be ok Like me if you do not open any email attachments and quit downloading all of these free programs which is loaded with Spyware and some viruses.\n\nGet a good AV program. I have AVG and keep it updated at all times.\n\nAlso get all of Microsoft Updates and and Office Updates you may need.\n\nThis is what I would do if I was you.
560945
A few months ago I would have said its not necessary, but recently after reinstalling windows within seconds of being online I get bombarded with spyware and viruses, most of which is prevented by using a firewall.  The only disadvantages are some programs no longer work unless you open ports, although newer firewall software makes it a bit easier but it can be a hassle none the less.  Its worth it in the long run to have a firewall, and the one built into windows doesn't cut it security wise, but its better than nothing.  On top of a firewall I would recommend running anti spyware tools like spybot search and destroy, lavasoft adaware, spyware blaster, all found on majorgeeks.com
362645
firewalled and password protected
1085372
Windows 2000 has a firewall!\nYou can find it in the TCP-IP properties of the network adapter (TCP-IP Filter)\n\nIt's not a sensation but that is the XP SP2 firewall neither.\n\n\nFOR THOSE WO mean that the TCP-IP Filter ist not a firewall, please read this article:\n\nhttp://homepages.wmich.edu/~mchugha/w2kfirewall.htm\n\nand tell me, what can you do with XP SP2 that you can't do with the one from Win2000
1078984
If you have ZoneAlarm installed don't uninstall it.  ZoneAlarm is much better than the WinXP firewall.  If you don't I would recommend that you download ZoneAlarm and install it.  Your computer will be better protected.  The WinXP firewall only blocks incoming traffic, ZoneAlarm (and all retail firewalls) monitor outgoing traffic also.  ZoneAlarm is free.  I realize this doesn't exactly answer your question but you will be better off.  First link is for download and second link is a how-to use ZoneAlarm.  Most retail firewalls disable the WinXP firewall to avoid conflicts.
144065
Yes you do. Windows firewall is better than nothing, but do get some extra protection. If you have ever experienced a computer infected by all kinds of s*** you wouldn't ask... If you do netbanking or have other things on your computer you don't want the world to see it's even more of a reason for getting antivirus software and a firewall (or a security suite where everything is included).\n\nThere are tons of different versions out there. I won't do a commercial for any one particular. Rule of thumb: you get what you pay for. \n\nIt's money well spent if you ask me.
907106
Go to hear and check out there reviews of the free anti virus programs. And they have free firewall reviews too.\nhttp://www.pcworld.com/
780607
Don't use your windows firewall.  Use an internet security program firewall.
1059942
Yes if you have a firewall your computers will be safe.  The VPN tunnel you are probably useing is eithere PPTPv2 which is safe to connect to work or IPSec which is also safe to use to connect to work.  Picture a direct line to work that is only connecting your laptop and work.  The desktop is safe from work or hackers and your laptop is too.  Just make sure you have the latest anti-virus and  anti-spyware programs loaded up on your computers.  Also make sure you have firewalls on both and they should be very safe.
1163778
you may want to go to http://scan.sygatetech.com/ where it will scan your comp and tell you how protected your comp is, you can try it with and without your 3rd pary firewall
54675
Norton is better than Windows firewall.I suggest ZoneAlarm and they have a free version that works great.I have had it for 5 years and never had any problems.You can download it free from the site below.
307475
The surest way is to not be on the Internet, not let anyone else use your computer and never insert discs from anyone who is not a totally trusted source.\n\nAs a practical matter, having a broadband router, the Windows firewall that comes with XP Service Pack 2, Windows Automatic Updates turned on, a good antivirus program, a couple decent anti-spyware programs (such as Spybot and Ad-Aware), and taking the attitude you will never, ever download any program ever from the Internet, should keep you plenty safe.
590141
Windows XP comes with its own firewall.  Download Service Pack 2 from Microsoft if you haven't already, and that will make your firewall even better.\n\nAs a reminder, your new PC probably came with a 90 day version of AntiVirus software as well.  After the 90 days is up, you'll need to upgrade or uninstall that too.\n\nUnless you feel like paying for antivirus, my suggestion is to get Awil's Avast 4.6 Home Edition.\nhttp://www.avast.com/eng/avast_4_home.html\nIt's free.  The only thing you have to do is register it, and provide some info.  The license lasts for 13 months, but as soon as it expires, you just re-register and they give you a new license.  I've had it for years.\n\n**Note** Never install new antivirus software before completely uninstalling the old one or system may lock up!
104457
for one if your using a windows pc the firewall supplied is junk. i could hack tht with my dog at the keyboard. get you self a better reputed fire wall like one by symantics. or which ever one you choose. install it an then it should ask you everytime you accses a program tht connect via internet. if you know the program is safe enable it to accese. if you are worried it is nopt then dont let it use the net.
1141705
use a good firewall , like symantec firewall.l
563846
Try Zonealarm. There's a free version and a version that you have to pay for:\n\nhttp://www.zonelabs.com\n\nAlso, remeber that XP SP2 comes with a built in firewall. You can turn it on by using the Security Center in the Control Panel.\n\nHope this Helps!!
1121463
Windows XP SP2 (not SP1, though) has a built-in firewall - but it is so bad, that it is only marginally better than no firewall at all.\n\nZoneAlarm is probably the most popular free personal firewall out there - but it's of horribly low quality. It is buggy, loses its settings, crashes, cuts your Internet connection for no reason at all, and so on. The tech support of the company-producer sucks, too.\n\nI would recommend Kerio. You can use the unregistered version for free and the only things the registed version has more than the unregistered one are things you don't really need in a personal firwall - like Web filtering.