The Need for Firewalls

[kheyanne]

Do you think it is mandatory for computer users to use firewalls in their system? Or is the regular anti-virus software enough. Anti virus software with firewall can be too expensive. Is it worth the investment?

[vtabletop]

After seeing what a firewall can do, I'd feel vulnerable without it.When I first downloaded the firewall I am currectly using, it showed the number of attempts it blocked to access my computer.If not for the firewall ,I'd have countless users exploiting the open ports on my computer.Atleast this way I get to choose which program I want to allow to access the net and which ones to access the pc.I think it's absolutely vital to have a good firewall,antivirus and antispyware when you are online.

[attagirl]

After reading some of the other replies to the same topics I feel that a firewall that gives you accessibility is very important for many reasons.

[niki]

Firewall is important servers have physical/hardware firewalls which are much more effective and expensive than software firewall and they also help you to control access/initiation of applications.

[funtoosh]

If you have a router which already ahs a firewall than there is no need to spend your money on software firewalls and XP firewall will be enough.

[blasted]

To be honest mate i have turned my windows default firewall off and said ill monitor my own firewall.I don't have one as they restrict too many things online and there no good.If you have a strong anti-virus and spyware and run it monthly you will be okay.

[Nick]

It is always good to keep the firewall on even when we think it is not necessary. The main function of a firewall is to protect the PC from hackers, intruders etc. As you already have a firewall installed with your Windows, why you put your PC in risk by not using it?

I would recommend using a good, powerful firewall for all internet users.

[blasted]

Yes i do put my firewall on occasionally the default windows firewall.Just one problem it blocks alot of things online and disables somethings having a firewall on for some things i do online.Therefore, to save me hassle i switch it off.