Firewalling and Intrusion Detection - Exterra Networks Support Resources

Any given day in the computer world, hackers are discovering new exploits, creating new viruses, and creating new ways to break into computer systems. Most computer users don't realize that all they need to to become infected or, in other words, to let these hackers break into their PCs is simply be connected to the Internet.

A firewall is your most important tool in protecting your computer against inbound attacks, either from viruses scanning for vulnerable computers to infect, or hackers targeting a specific computer. Firewalls work by inspecting inbound and outbound internet traffic against a set of traffic rules. Traffic that is allowed, or deemed safe by the firewall is then permitted while unsafe traffic is blocked.

Users need to remember that determining the rules for their firewalls in determining the difference between allowed and blocked traffic is extremely important. Proper rules will result in better protection for the firewalled computer or network.

Some firewalls automatically set their own rules. Symantec Internet Security, McAfee Internet Security Suite, TrendMicro Internet Security and other firewalls bundled with antivirus programs typically configure their own rules based on pre-set security levels and known threats.

Other firewalls, such as Zone Labs' ZoneAlarm firewall allow users to configure their own rules. ZoneAlarm is, perhaps, the most configurable of the software firewalls as it allows easy access to a list of programs which request access to the Internet and options based on each program whether or not to allow such traffic to be delivered.

For novice users, it is recommended to use a managed firewall that sets its own traffic rules, like McAfee Internet Security Suite. Advanced users, who are familiar with the applications on their computer, should choose something like ZoneAlarm, which allows for greater functionality.

All of this being said, there will be times when you as a user must allow something through the firewall or must block something unwanted. With this in mind, there is a wonderful list of internet utilities which are often used and the ports which need to be open for them at www.firewalling.com.

Please also remember that no firewall is a replacement for AntiVirus and AntiSpyware protection. Each of these protections are the cornerstones of the foundations which will help keep your computer safe when major virus outbreaks and security vulnerabilities are trying to break through your security.