Windows firewall.

As you can see from the image below you will want to keep the windows firewall turned on.

You also have the choice of allowing exceptions.  With the exceptions rule you can allow certain software to access the internet.  This may be software you use all the time and need it to be allowed to access the net.

Be careful what you allow here in the windows firewall.  And remember to check the exception list once in a while to make sure spyware or other types of bad programs are not listed and have access to the internet.

You can also add ports under exceptions to the windows firewall that you want to be able to have access to the internet.

If you are connecting to the internet through a wireless network in a place like Starbucks, you will want to choose the don’t allow exceptions check box in the windows firewall.  This will by pass any of the programs or anything else listed from the exceptions tab.  This allows more secure browsing when connected to a public network.

The advanced tab of the windows firewall is just for more advanced users who want to be able to manipulate the windows firewall to be able to do more things like logging or changing their network settings.

All in all, the windows firewall is not a bad firewall that comes free with windows xp. 

Should you use it alone to protect your computer?  No you shouldn’t.  You should also have good virus protection along with a router. 

A router will also provide another type of firewall at the network level other than the windows firewall.

What the windows firewall will do is act as a door to your pc and help block out any attempts of anyone trying to get into your pc.

Back from windows firewall