Double firewall?

[chaser_22]

I was wondering wheter it is really necessary to install firewall software on your pc when your router already has a firewall built in?

I have a sitecom router with firewall, I thought that should be sufficient to keep hackers and others the hell away from my stuff.

All the logs that are send to my email address suggest that the firewall is doing it's job.

Someone told me that firewall's in cheaper router's aren't up to the job.

Should I use a second firewall on my pc and if so which one?

I'm only familiar with Norton firewall.

[Rob R.]

Routers only block unsolicited traffic from coming in. If none of your apps asked for it, it's going to be ignored. However, it does not block anything from getting out. If you have adware, spyware, junkware, or any of those neat downloading apps, it will have unrestricted access to your internet connection. This is where a software firewall is handy, it blocks access leaving your computer so only applications that you have allowed access to the internet can get out.

I personally feel just fine with my routers NAT firewall, an anti-virus program, and two anti-adware programs (one blocks and one cleans). It's whatever makes you comfortable that will work best.

[chaser_22]

I have the same settings as you, firewall in the router, Norton AV, Lavasoft Adaware and Spybot.

Only reason why I'm double checkin is because I do my banking through internet, do all my payings and stuff.

I think I'm pretty safe with my current settings so, to think safe is to be safe?

[Geoff813]

"Only reason why I'm double checkin is because I do my banking through internet, do all my payings and stuff."

That might protect your PC but security on the Net and at the banks system is still iffy.

Our small local area bank scrapped their on-line plans because of security issues. (That the big banks dont bother telling you about)

[chaser_22]

Well I think security is better compared to awhile back, you need to enter three lines of code before you can log on.

When you make a payment you use a list with passwords, goes on to about 100 passwords and you only use a password ones.
When you reach the 100th password you get a new list.

Up untill now, everything has gone hassle free, no funny business.

[Rob R.]

I don't worry about on-line banking. You notice the little lock icon in the bottom of the browser? That means 128 bit encryption which is pretty darn secure. If you want to worry, think about handing over the old check card and letting a waiter walk off with it for 5 minutes.

Any tech junky h4xx0r type isn't going to give 2 cents about our petty little checking and savings accounts, they're more than likely going to fry a bigger fish.

[Machiavelli]

are there any good, free firewall/antivirus programs out there?

because I am getting tired of spending 80$ for Nortons...although it is a very good program.

thanks!:t

[Midknyte]

read this sticky:
http://www.sysopt.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=161595

[chaser_22]

Cool, stickified on my desktop

[kpm547]

I run two firewalls. I have one in my router and then i use Sygate firewall as a software firewall. i like the dual combination because I can control what programs are calling home and restrict outgoing network traffic on a per program or per user basis. I also use a anti-virus and two ad blockers/cleaners.:t

[G]

The firewall built in to a router will not be the equivalent to a stand-alone hardware firewall as I found out today.

Router/firewall means it is best to install a software firewall too.