Software firewall with a hardware firewall

SeanC · May 15th, 2003, 11:06 PM

Do I still need to use a software firewall (Zonealarm) now that I've got a hardware firewall (Linksys)?

I'm just looking for opinions mainly. If I don't need Zonealarm that will free up some resources on my PC.

Thanks,
Sean

The Punisher · May 15th, 2003, 11:08 PM

Umm, depends which version you have, on my router I can't configure a firewall, I have to enforce it through ZoneAlarm its weird, but I don't know if that's right, I got the BEFW1134 V.2

NeoStarO1 · May 15th, 2003, 11:09 PM

Yes same way with my router. I have no internal access to it. Either that im a dummy.

So I always use a software firewall in conjunction with the router.

Better to be safe than sorry.

The Punisher · May 15th, 2003, 11:14 PM

Its just plain and simple Linksys !!!!! AHHH, i hate linksys

[A3D]Hatswitch · May 16th, 2003, 02:40 AM

A software firewall can monitor and stop outbound packets, so if you feel you may have some spyware sending out info on your computer....

May 16th, 2003, 03:27 AM

Yep, [A3D]Hatswitch has it right. The NAT of the hardware firewall is fairly good at stopping incoming probes, but a good software firewall will stop any nasties that YOU accidentally infect your system with from doing an E.T. and phoning home.

Just realise that no combination of hardware/software firewalls, intrusion detectors or anything is completely foolproof. There is always a risk. You just need to balance the risk.

Cheers
Mick

edwelly · May 16th, 2003, 12:14 PM

I am currently just using the Linksys router but I am going to install Sygate this weekend. I would recoemmend you give them a look as well as ZoneAlarm - http://soho.sygate.com/buy/download_buy.htm - the last one on that page has a free downlaod which works rather well
---edwelly

implexant · May 16th, 2003, 12:17 PM

remember folks, a good AV solution is meant to stop trojans, not a firewall

-Chris

SeanC · May 16th, 2003, 06:05 PM

Thanks for all the tips.

I'll be leaving Zonealarm on, since I paid for the Pro version until the update period ends. Then I'll rethink my strategy. I can put up with the extra time it takes that to load for now.

My wallet speaks louder then my patience for waiting on a PC to boot up. I don't want to waste the money I paid on the Pro version to get the program updates and the additional port filtering.

Sean

The Punisher · May 16th, 2003, 06:24 PM

zonealarm pro is a very good program, stops ads too, theres an option for it, i never get ads while visiting web pages.