Networking and firewalls.

I have recently struggled to get a home network up and running. I found it much more complicated than various guides and explanations would have us believe, but I got there in the end.

It consists of a DSL-2640R router, the primary computer "Upstairs" running XP Home, and the secondary computer "Downstairs" running XP Pro.

Upstairs is connected to the router via an Ethernet cable, Downstairs connected to the router via Ethernet over the a.c. mains through a couple of those whatever you call them (Ethernet over the mains?) adapters.

One of the things I was advised to do was switch off both firewalls, since the router is one/has one.

What are the pros and cons of this?

If they are to remain off, is there any way to prevent the appearance of the annoying advice balloon which tells me so every time either computer boots up?

 

to turn off this annoying popup you go to Control Panel and open Security Center. You should see on the left "Change the way security center alerts me."

I always turn my windows firewall off. i put all my trust into modem/router firewall. i believe the software firewalls are for the more paranoid people.

 

A firewall in a router behaves differently from a firewall on a computer due to their levels of configuration options.

I personally recommend both firewalls as you can be alerted by a firewall on your computer when a firewall on your router doesn't alert you unless you look at the logs.

Also, putting all your security eggs in one basket might not be the safest idea.

You can also get internet security suites for free (like the one offered by comodo) which contain a firewall, antivirus, and other internet security programs. These are your best defensive choice in conjunction with a router firewall.

 

I had already downloaded that one, but have held off installing it yet. I shall go ahead and do so.

Thank you.

 

Wi-Fi configuration issue with my Power Mac G4 desktop

 

What he said . . .

Old thread, but it bears repeating. There is a reason some forms of malware are called "Trojans."

Depending on one layer of protection didn't do the citizens of Troy much good, did it?