Need PC Tech Help Please

[luvthatduke]

Just upgraded from dial-up to DSL.
Can anyone tell me about firewalls?
(for instance Spychecker has several freeware offers).
TIA!

 

[Papa Deuce]

Just upgraded from dial-up to DSL.
Can anyone tell me about firewalls?
(for instance Spychecker has several freeware offers).
TIA!

Well, lots of "free' one are actually spyware infested! Watch out. make sure you turn on the firewall in Windows XP if you have it. Possibly your router ( DSL ) has a firewall built in. My cable router does, according to Comcast.

Read the reviews at www.download.com

or www.pcmagazine.com

 

[luvthatduke]

Thanks PD.
I still have Win98, believe it or not!
I'm waiting to hear back from my server (Cavalier)
regarding the firewall.
I only go to 2 trusted Spyware sites
and that's where the freeware was that I found.

 

[gr8tpanther]

I have used many different firewall programs, and I like Zone Alarm the best. It is the easiest to use, it basically sets itself up.

 

[luvthatduke]

I have used many different firewall programs, and I like Zone Alarm the best. It is the easiest to use, it basically sets itself up.

Thanks, I'll check it out.

 

[Aidensmom]

A firewall is a very good thing. Because you are connected to the internet more with DSL than dial-up in most cases (because when the computer is on, you are online) you actually have more of a risk of having "bad" things happen.

I would consult support for your ISP before setting anything up, they will be able to tell you what best works with your connection, and/or if they provide some kind of firewall service.

 

[mtblujeans]

Thanks PD.
I still have Win98, believe it or not!
I'm waiting to hear back from my server (Cavalier)
regarding the firewall.
I only go to 2 trusted Spyware sites
and that's where the freeware was that I found.

I still have Win98, too, and want to switch to DSL soon. I would be curious of your opinion of your new service with your Win98, once you use it a little.....

 

[luvthatduke]

I decided to go with Zone Alarm as it seems to
be the most recommended/linked freeware available.
So far, so good.
It and the DSL are running just fine with my Windows 98.
I'm enjoying watching news clips at my leisure!

 

[mtblujeans]

Thanks....good to know! I have used Zone Alarm before and it worked fine in my Win98! I need to finish my work so I can take my computer apart to move my desk to make it closer to the phone jack. I want to upgrade the memory and re-install Win98 and then get the DSL goin'. I have a wireless network to set up for the kids' computers off mine (to access DSL, too...which I am TOTALLY unfamiliar with)....it's good to have goals!