Firewall

toc =What is it?=

A Firewall is a gateway limiting access between networks, so that outside sources, such as hackers are not able to access a certain computer and destroy information. It is installed on computers (software or hardware) in order to enforce security. Every computer with an internet connection has its own individual IP address as well as ports which enable data transfer for specific programs. Without firewall software installed, your computer is left vulnerable to hackers because of all the open ports, allowing them to intrude and edit your data freely. The most common problem with firewalls is that they sometimes conflict with some programs by blocking the ports needed for them to operate. This can be adjusted in the settings of many software firewalls however, each web site contains risks of spyware and spam. Firewall software are never 100% secure just as not every lock is 100% unbreakable thus encryption software should also be considered.

=3 Types=

There are three types of firewalls that can protect from getting viruses, spyware, spam, crackers etc

Internet or E-mail Providers
These companies set up their own defenses to protect their consumers.

Wire or Wireless Router (connected to modem)
This allows for internal defense from other people on the user’s network as well as external protection. Wireless routers can be more dangerous because many wireless routers are left open to public usage thus encryptions are higly recommanded to prevent any intrusion. For instance, 128 bit of WEP or WAP encryptions will make your data difficult to encode so it's more secure.

Security Software
Security software, also known as a personal firewall, is a piece of software that enables computer protection without the need of any hardware. The main difference between hardware and software firewalls is that software firewalls only protect the computer it is installed on whereas a hardware firewall can protect an entire network. Personal firewalls provide easy to use personalization that prompts the user when connections are being made and if they would wish to block them (Wikipedia). They also use intrusion detection which blocks suspicious activity. However, there are some negative aspects. Being a program that is installed on a computer, the firewall will use up some system resources and also make the computer a target for attacks (Wikipedia). If spyware or malware somehow gets on to a protected computer, there is a chance that it may render the firewall ineffective or even shut it down (Wikipedia). Personal firewalls are not perfect; they may sometimes warn users on harmless occasions but are a smart and inexpensive option for the average personal computer user.

Firewalls allow people to customize their security to their needs. This can be done by opening ports or allowing certain sites to be accessed because the user knows it is reliable and secure.

The leading software companies that enable the firewall through their programs include [|McAfee] and [|Norton].


 * Newer operating systems have a firewall software built into the OS (Windows XP and OS X)

=Work Cited=

Wikipedia. Personal Firewall. (n.d.). Retrieved February 25, 2006, from 

From Google located at http://www.cases.public.lu/publications/fiches/firewall/illustr.jpg
 * Images**