Firewalls

Firewalls and Security Suites

Firewall software is your first line of defense from attacks by outside agents - be they people or software programs.  Although many broadband service providers offer "firewalled" connections and many (if not all) broadband routers (see our reviews on Ethernet, Phoneline and Powerline and Wi-Fi Home Networks for further information) also deliver some degree of firewalling and even Windows XP includes firewall software, we still recommend that you look into, if not definitely purchase one of the firewall software packages detailed below.  Why?  For a few reasons (that are worth the dollars you'll spend on this software type). 

• Many, if not most of these packages also include "extras" beyond intrusion prevention such as pop-up stoppers, spyware removers, content control (parental control and inappropriate content management), reporting (letting you know the IP address or other information of attempted intrusions so you can, if you wish, report the information to your ISP - Internet Service Provider, for further action), privacy control (blocking cookies) and more. 
• You'll get more "control" over the security of your systems.  Especially for those of you out there that love to get the most out of technology (and are willing to spend the time and effort to do it), most firewall software gives users a way to manage the security of their systems as well as optimize security settings for their specific needs.
• Most of these packages include "subscriptions" that either on an automated or manual basis, help you to keep abreast of new attack methodologies.  The software either updates itself, or the company allows you to access their web site to download the updates.

So, if we've convinced you to go further and think about purchasing firewall software, some things to think about...

• Compatibility - interestingly enough, the biggest complaint I've heard about firewall software is that some packages tend to "hang" the PC or shut down the Internet connection from time-to-time.  You should check the vendors technical FAQ to see if they have any mention of this issue (especially for your particular operating system).  Postings are a sure "danger" sign.
• Extras - as noted above, the more features and functions included, the less you'll have to worry about  - both from a security and software compatibility standpoint.  So, if you can get a firewall with anti-pop-up software in it, you won't have to purchase a firewall and anti-pop-up software and worry about whether they'll work together or not (or crash your machine!).
• Reporting - it's actually very surprising how many attacks are arriving at "your door" every day.  Reporting is nice sometimes just to assure yourself of the effectiveness of your investment!

  Web Home Office Reports

• Applications - some communications software and other applications (especially network-based ones) are "troubled" by firewalls.  In other words, they just can't get through!  Make sure BEFORE you implement firewall software that, especially network-based applications, are "firewall friendly".

Ready to upgrade your system's protection?  Read on.

Some manufacturers offer more than one package in this category.  We'll review them in table format within that manufacturer's detailed review.

Firewall and Security Suite Review

Personal Firewalls*

(Rankings - best, 5 symbols, worst, 1 symbol)

* A = Amateur, R = Rookie, P = Pro

Armor2net

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Armor2net's Personal Firewall is easy to install and use.

Cost - $$$$1/2

Armor2net Personal Firewall is priced at $29.99.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

If you've ever had an intruder "plant" a worm or other destructive software on your system or had them 'takeover' your CPU, you'll know that firewall software is a productivity boost - just in PREVENTING lost time due to data destruction and system outages.

Ease of Use - @@@@

Armor2net's user interface is straight forward and easy to understand.

Works With - YYY

Armor2net is designed for the Windows environment only.

Support - ppp

Armor2net offers an online FAQ and email support only.

Features - iii1/2

Armor2net has some nice features.  We especially like the pop-up stopper and spyware remover that is included with the intrusion detection and management system.

Overall Rating - %%%1/2

Armor2net offers good functionality at a VERY good price.  Our biggest concern regarding this software is customer support.  However, if you're a good "techie" this "concern" isn't a big one.

Ashampoo

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Ashampoo's security software is simple to install and set up for use.

Cost - $$$$1/2

Firewall Pro is priced at $29.99, Security Pack 2 at $39.89 and Firewall is a free download.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

If you've ever had an intruder "plant" a worm or other destructive software on your system or had them 'takeover' your CPU, you'll know that firewall software is a productivity boost - just in PREVENTING lost time due to data destruction and system outages.

Ease of Use - @@@@

Ashampoo offers both "Easy" and "Expert" modes in their software that lets you do as much or as little "configuration" work as you desire.

Works With - YYY

Ashampoo products are designed for the Windows environment.

Support - ppp

Ashampoo's web site includes a support database with fixes for common problems.  If you need more help, email is your only option.

Features - iiii

A number of standard and "nice to have" features - "easy and expert" modes, parental controls traffic volume limiting, Internet cleaner, file wiper, Spam blocker, Internet accelerator and logging and analysis tools in Firewall Pro and a robust security "solution" that includes AntiSpyWare 2, AntiVirus, FireWall PRO and Magical Security 2 products in Security Pack 2.

Overall Rating - %%%1/2+

Very competitively priced products with good functionality.

BitDefender

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

BitDefender products are straight forward to install and set up for use.

Cost - $$$$

BitDefender Internet Security 2008 is priced at $39.95, Total Security 2008 at $59.95.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

If you've ever had an intruder "plant" a worm or other destructive software on your system or had them 'takeover' your CPU, you'll know that firewall software is a productivity boost - just in PREVENTING lost time due to data destruction and system outages.  The addition of Anti-Virus and Anti-Spam capabilities makes this package a huge help in protecting your critical business data.

Ease of Use - @@@@

BitDefender products include configuration wizards to help you get started.  Once in place, you probably won't even think about the software (unless it detects an attack).

Works With - YYY1/2

BitDefender's main products are designed for the Windows environment.  They offer "free" anti-virus software for Linux and FreeBSD distributions.

Support - pppp

BitDefender's web site includes a searchable knowledge base, downloads, a FAQ and user manuals.  If you need more help, you can use BitDefender's online live chat service to contact tech support.  Live Chat is available 24/7.

Features - iiii

Solid anti-virus, anti-spam and firewall software.  Extra for anti-virus is scanning of file sharing and instant messaging attachments as well as standard file and email scanning.  Anti-rootkit and anti-phishing capabilities are also plusses.

Overall Rating - %%%%

It's hard not to like these products.  Solid features and functions, competitive pricing and a good technical support strategy.  Definitely should be on your purchasing "short list".

Boomerang

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Boomerang's eXtendia PC Firewall is easy to install and set-up.

Cost - $$$$

eXtendia PC Firewall is priced at $29.95.