Cable hookup; firewall, software/hardware(?)

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)

 

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

 

Hi Pat

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
Practically Networked

Regards,

CrazyM