Firewalls?

Question

What is a firewall?,and how do you turn them on and off?

Answer 1

A firewall is a security filter between your computer (or any LAN) and the public Internet. The purpose of a firewall is to filter the packets of information that come in and prevent any unwanted access. Firewalls can be either physical devices, sorta like a modem, or software. Chances are yours will be software. It should be pretty simple to turn off, just figure out what your fire wall is called and open that program from the start menu. Or if you want the default windows firewall off then open the advances tab in the network connections window. Good Luck.

Answer 2

A firewall is designed to prevent unauthorized entry. Some also prevent unauthorized exits. Their purpose is security and protection, much like a fence can be used to keep undesirables out.

Each brand is a bit different. PC based software firewalls are activated differently and you need to check the maker's firewall info to determine how to activate and deactivate it. You also need to restrict its performance as you can make it so tight you cannot network at all.

Hardware firewalls are often built into the better routers. These control entry attempts and only approved entries pass through. There are also stand alone hardware firewalls too.

Answer 3

A firewall keeps outsiders from getting into your system and taking it over. Each one has different controls. I like Zone Alarm - you can use it for free. At zonealarm.com