I am using Windows XP Pro which provides a firewall. Is this as effective as the other firewalls which are available? Which would give the best security? Allen Thompson
The Windows XP SP2 firewall could be described as just about adequate for most home users, but I would expect most or all commercial firewalls to offer better security. Usually I suggest adding a free firewall such as Sygate, Kerio or ZoneAlarm. However, the market for free or cheap firewalls seems to be thinning. Sygate has been taken over by Symantec, and Kerio is being discontinued on December 31.
All these are still options, but I now need to try a few more firewalls and have another think!
There's a good list of what's available here at Personal Firewall Reviews, plus advice and links to articles.
Does anyone else have any recommendations?
Update: Will Watts has just pointed out that Lavasoft has launched a (paid for) firewall. Following the link to the free trial download leads to this interesting PCWorld.com page with more firewalls and related programs.
