It is important to know how and why you should install a web firewall with the onslaught of computer hackers, scammers, and viruses that are prevalent around the Internet. Defense from malicious data harming your computer is provided by a web firewall. With one, you can avoid dangerous attacks that can wipe out your data or steal personal information.
The web firewalls available vary widely and you must determine which type is suitable for your computer. Chances are that your web firewall is already set up and ready to be used if you have a computer that came installed with the Microsoft XP or Vista operating system. However, it may not be turned on or working properly. Your own software needs to be purchased if you do not have one of these later operating systems. You may want to purchase separate software to complement Microsoft XP, as its version of web firewall doesn’t get great reviews.
There are many products available, including as the most popular – Norton, AVG, and McAfee and you can either visit a store that sells computer software or download a web firewall product through the Internet. Even from the leading companies, there are plenty of low cost versions available, with prices varying according to the sophistication of the software. Once in hand and prior to installing your web firewall, you need to take a few things into consideration. The program must not stop you using the functions that you need, such as file and printing sharing. The documentation provided allows the settings to be configured during installation or at a later date.
Access to certain parts of the Internet is limited by a web firewall. If you use a local area network or a router this may happen, so you should be aware how you connect. Secured networks are particularly difficult to access when you have a web firewall installed. If you work from home or connect to a company computer, you need to coordinate with the IT department in your company before installing a web firewall since they may have specific instructions concerning how to configure its settings so you are still able to connect to them.
Dara says
I always find myself frustrated with firewalls because they *always* seem to block programs I don’t want it to…do you have a suggestion for a (preferably free) firewall that doesn’t get rid of the good stuff?