[debodun]

I understand that Windows XP has a built-in firewall. Should I also install the additional firewall that my ISP provides or is the built-in firewall enough protection? Will the two programs conflict?

[blues_harp28]

Hi Windows Firewall only monitors outgoing traffic.
Many find an independant Firewall is better.
What Firewall comes with your ISP?

http://www.jetico.com
http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/

[debodun]

Computer Associates Internet Security Suite 2007. My ISP is proving security now based on Zone Alarm, but will stop supporting it this coming week. Users have been asked to upgrade to the new software, but I have had trouble downloading it despite repeated contacts wit ISP's tech support.

[Rich-M]

If you have a good antivirus and antispyware program running in the background, there is no need of more than Windows firewall. I mean if you practice safe surfing and have great protection what would be dialing out anyway. The real issue is what is trying to get in though Blues_Harp is only partially right as after Sp2 in XP, the Windows firewall became partially 2-way and Vista firewall is 2 way.