Firewall software?

[finch]

I am thinking about using BT Broadband to get on the internet. I am a home user. Do I really need a firewall and virus software? If so, why? And what package do you recommend?

[mattie]

Yes, you most definitely need antivirus software, and a firewall is advisable. I use BT broadband, BT are currently running a service where they scan your emails for viruses before you get them, and it works. I am currently using zonealarm for firewall purposes, it is free, but as it is a software firewall, it is not perfect, however there are a number of hardware based adsl routers for sale which combine a firewall with a switch, allowing you to share your broadband connection between more than one PC, if you so wish. They are available from http://www.zionmedia.co.uk

[Starsky]

You can also get free firewall/antivirus software at www.download.com - go to "utilities" and then "antivirus" or search for "firewall". Alternatively, if you have more than one PC you could use an ADSL router with a built-in firewall.

[darth vader]

Mattie and Starsky told you that you need one, but not why, so i will answer this. Under the old dialup modem system you were only connected to the internet for the duration of your call, and so hacking by others (unauthorised access to your machine) whilst you were dialled up was nigh on impossible as they didn't have enough time to crack your system. With Broadband things are different in that you will have a permanent virtual connection to the internet which stays for the duration of your machine being turned on, which means that whilst your machine is turned on you are open to hacking from others. A firewall will prevent this from happening by closing off the ways of getting in (via TCP/IP usually) and allow only certain protocols to pass (HTTP for websurfing for example) which are "non-hackable". The antivirus software will check any data which is allowed across the firewall. Hope that explains everything.