[helpseeker]

I'm sure it's not the best, but -- on a scale of 1 to 5, 5 being best -- how good is the firewall that comes with WinXP SP2?

I also have Computer Associates' EZ Firewall, but haven't been using it since it started causing problems with internet access. Instead I've been relying on Windows Firewall.

Thanks to all who may reply.

[golferbob]

here is a chart that shows how firewalls compare. i myself use comodo free firewall.

[golferbob]

sorry ,forgot the chart.


http://www.matousec.com/projects/win...ewalls-ratings

[Old Rich]

The XP firewall does a decent job of stopping incomming traffic, but does not stop outgoing. In circumstances where the PC is behind a Router, the XP Firewall should be all that is needed.

Unlike most third-party firewalls, the XP firewall is on from boot ( important with "always on" internet connections . . and uses very little resources.

If the user does not exercize good judgement, no firewall will protect the pc.

[reezin14]

IMO comodo, and zonealarm are the two best free FW's that you can use. You do want a FW that monitors incoming and outgoing. Thanks for the link golferbob.