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Using A Firewall For Laptop Security

There are two types of firewalls you can purchase, a hardware firewall and a software firewall. As this post reflects laptop security for now we’ll discuss using a software firewall and how it can protect your system from unauthorized access.

What is a firewall?

A firewall acts as a shield for a computer that can used to permit, deny, encrypt, or proxy all computer traffic. In simpler terms a firewall can restrict internet or network access for a computer by using a rule set configuration.

Why use a firewall?

When a computer connects to the internet traffic is passed through ports on the system. Different applications and services will use different ports, for example, when you browse a website using an internet browser such as Internet Explorer internet traffic will pass through port 80.

If you don’t protect these ports your system is open to all sorts of attacks by hackers or crackers who scan IP addresses looking for ports that could be of use to them.

You can run a port scan using a 3rd party service such as Shieldsup that will provide you with information on which ports are open or closed on your laptop so if needed you can take action.

A firewall is as useful as an umbrella on a hot summer’s day if it’s not configured correctly. Most people tend to think that once a firewall is installed their computer is protected, far from it. You must tell the firewall which ports should be closed or open and which software should denied or granted access to the internet.

Whats the best firewall software to use for a laptop?

There are many firewall products available on the market and even Microsoft Windows has a built-in firewall but for a reliable software firewall we recommend using ZoneAlarm Pro Firewall as its easy to use but provide adequate protection for your firewall.

When an application or service makes a request to access the internet Zone Alarm will issue an alert allowing you to grant or deny access giving you more control on what can and cannot have internet access.

See other tips for better laptop protection and security

Related posts:

1. 16 Security Tips for Better Laptop Protection
2. Use Anti-Virus Programs For Laptop Security
3. Secure And Disable Wireless Networking On A Laptop

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