Firewall

Most PC users know that malicious programs like spyware, viruses & worms can attack their PCs through the Internet & cause serious problem. Yet, many users do not have a firewall running on their networks or PCs.

A firewall is a device that checks every piece of data entering & leaving your computer. It helps protect your computer by restricting the data, based on a set of rules that you define. A firewall can be a special piece of equipment that you connect to a network or a program that you install on your computer. As its name suggests, a firewall is like a fence built around your PC to protect it form unauthorized access & attack through the Internet.

Most users complain that firewalls prevent them from using the Internet properly, so they choose not to use one. Some don't even know the difference between firewalls, antivirus programs & spyware removers. However, there's no excuse. Every PC connected to the Internet needs a firewall. Not having one is like leaving all the doors & windows of your house open & inviting people to enter and do whatever they like. Some malicious users use programs called port scanners to look for online PCs, they will try to hack or break into them. But remember - although firewalls are necessary, never use more than one at a time as this could cause unexpected behaviour on your PC.

Firewalls are easy obtain. Search for them online and you will find many, which you can purchaseor download for free. Also, some operating systems come with their own firewalls, although it is very basic & only checks incoming data. However, using this is good enough for most people as it makes it harder for malicious programs to find & attack their PCs. A good firewall should monitor all programs that try to access your PC from the Internet or any other network & alert you accordingly. It should never allow any unauthorized data to enter or leave your PC without your permission. A good firewall should also hide your PC's presence from the Internet, so if anyone tries to hack into your PC, he or she will not be able to find it. Of course, an ideal firewall should have all these qualities, while still being affordable or even free.