I expect this post will generate a lot of controversy but I would like to get to the bottom of the the arguments about the value of software firewalls vs. hardware based firewalls.
I have been told by several very knowledgeable persons that running a software based firewall such as those from Zonealarm, Norton, Mcafee etc. are really unnecessary and quite useless. They advocate that the hardware firewalls in most routers are much better. Better yet, or best, is to build an old machine and use it as a dedicated firewall.
Personally, I have been using Zonealarm pro and 'thought' it was working and protecting me. I now wonder if I am just gullible and it is not doing what I believed it to be doing.
I welcome all views and information.
Thanks