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View Full Version : Cable hookup; firewall, software/hardware(?)


SG1
May 4th, 2003, 11:22 PM
Time soon to spring for cable hookup; but would like advice on safe surfing strategy w/"always on" cable setup.
Have ZA firewall 2.6.231 which does a fine job of not giving away the store, have Spywareguard, Spyware Blaster, Spybot S&D, Naviscope to block adds/JavaScript and the like, and have added few lines to Registry from Trend Micro's AV site about >not doing certain things with use of MS mailer< which I seldom use, anyway.
But, I understand that for a well layered defense one should have a Linksys or NAT type router or... "something" like that? Have vague idea of what I'm talking about here, obviously, which can be dangerous - so can you folks guide me down the right road here on what I want before getting cable?
>>> Many many thanks as always, to many helpful folks I've happily found here for advice, which I've sought more than once, I'll say.
SG1 (Pat)

Patrice
May 5th, 2003, 07:41 AM
Hi SG1!

I'm having broadband as well. I bought a router (NAT) and I'm very happy with it. It's protecting my system as the first defense layer. Next to the router I'm using a software firewall as well. You certainly have a good firewall with ZA.

If you go for the router solution (what I suggest) have a look at the Linksys routers. They are quite cheap and very efficient. Go for the BEFSX series, because they have a better logging capability. Tools to log your traffic are free and are called "WallWatcher" and "GetLog".

Best regards!

Patrice

CrazyM
May 5th, 2003, 06:26 PM
Hi Pat

-{ Quote: " quoting: SG1 link=board=23;threadid=8996;start=0#58547 date=1052104974] But, I understand that for a well layered defense one should have a Linksys or NAT type router or... "something" like that?" }-

While not required for a stand-alone system on broadband, a router does and will provide security for your system. It will block all unsolicited inbound requests with the additional benefit of being independent of your system/OS. The bonus in having one is you are set to share this connection if and when your home set up expands to a small home LAN.

A couple of links to get you started with router/gateways:
Small Netbuilder (http://smallnetbuilder.com/)
Practically Networked (http://www.practicallynetworked.com/)

Regards,

CrazyM