Firewalls :::: What They Are And Why You MUST Have One!

Firewalls are security mechanisms that control who can access and send
data thru your network or computer. They can be applied to both hardware
and software on your computer; many systems use a combination of
each for greater protection. All data or messages entering or leaving
your computer has to pass thru the firewall, which checks all messages
and blocks those that don't meet your specified security criteria or
rules.

To put it in simple terms: think of a firewall as a security guard or a
security scanner for your computer or network. Anything going in or out
must be checked thru this system and must obey your rules!

Of course, this is just a simple explanation, firewalls can be very
complex; consisting of a whole combination of techniques that can be
used in concert depending on the level of security you wish to achieve.

These firewall techniques may include:

Application gateway -- places security mechanisms on specific
applications (FTP, Telnet, etc.)

Packet filters -- examines each packet using your computer and accepts
or rejects according to your rules

Circuit-level gateway -- security measures for such connections as TCP
(Transmission Control Protocol) or UDP (User Datagram Protocol)

Proxy server -- all messages entering or leaving your network must go thru
this proxy server, effective for hiding your true network or computer address

Also, for greater security, many networks use encrypted data.

If you are operating a computer or a server, putting up firewalls will
provide protection for your data and information that's passed along your
network. If you regularly surf the Internet, placing a firewall
on your own personal computer is a must. There is no reason not to have
a firewall in place, you can download a free firewall from www.zonealarm.com
for your own personal use.

Keep in mind, no system is foolproof; any computer or network hooked
up to the Internet can be hacked! Therefore, most people in the know, always
keep a back-up of their important data/information on a secure off-line source:
floppy disks, CDs, or on a computer that's not connected to the Internet.
Do daily or weekly back-ups to make sure your data and programs are safe.

Still, a good firewall will go a long way in protecting yourself from
any unauthorized access to your computer. With the occurrences of spyware,
adware, and other more invasive scumware increasing daily; putting
up a firewall and protecting yourself should be your first line of
defense against such unwanted and rude visitors. Nuke them at the gate
and save yourself from some major headaches.

Put that firewall up right now!