quote:
Originally posted by zaidgs
i tried this test today:
turn on windows firewall (i usually use norton internet security 2003)
dont allow an exception for msn messenger, and mirc
run msn messenger, and mirc
result: both connected through internet without a problem!!!!
thats not a typical firewall's case!!!!!
my question is how do u rate the window's firewall compared to other firewall, from the point view of both computer literate ppl and those who just want their work done. can we (at this point sp2) dump third-party firewall and rely on windows's firewall?? is it reliable??
Do not depend on the Windows Firewall. It is a 'stateful' firewall that only protects from *incoming, unsolicited* connections. If your network (or computer) is compromised it will not protect you or prevent data from going out.
That being said, you should run Windows Firewall PLUS a third party firewall such as Kerio, ZoneAlarm or Sygate. This is because Windows Firewall has a boot time protection that is not provided by the other products; it covers only a short period of time (between Windows starting, network/internet access going live and the third party firewall starting) but it is still a worthwhile protection in this brave new post-Blaster world where unprotected XP systems can be infected within seconds of being connected to the net. Windows firewall can safely be run at the same time as third party firewalls (I have tested ZoneAlarm (free and Pro), Kerio and Sygate - all work without a problem.
