Do I need to use zone alarm?

Question

I have a network at home which connects to the net through a wireless modem, the main computer is hard wired to the modem.
Do I need to use a firewall or does the modem provide me with protection from all the nasties out there.
My windows firewall is turned off.

Answer 1

Hello, for best security you should have your modem connected to a router unless the wireless modem is a router as well.

I've had wireless routers for all my networks and never had to worry about hackers.

Zone Alarm is pretty good and you should use it until you get a router.

http://free-tips-online.com/computer/ - Has some tips for protecting your computer on the internet & also provides a link to a free copy of Zone Alarm.

Answer 2

You need to use a firewall, your modem does not provide you with protection from the nasties.

If you turn on your Windows firewall, then you do not need ZoneAlarm.

However, should you have a router and perhaps a UPS through which the lan cable must go, then the router provides one extra step to break through, as does the UPS.
UPS = Uninterruptable Power Supply

Answer 3

There is some minor protection that your router provides, but it's nowhere near as comprehensive as the software firewall running on your computer. If you're running windows, you must run a firewall. The windows-provided firewall is just barely enough to get you by - but if you want better performance, granularity, and control over the app, you will want Zone Alarm.

Answer 4

turn on windows firewall
a computer tech told me
it was one of the better ones out there