Firewalls play a crucial role in network and computer security. Part I of this series, Home User Security: Your First Defense, examined the typical functions of firewalls and how they can be of use on an individual level. More specifically, the need for personal firewalls in the home office was discussed. Now we will explore some of the best options on the market, many of which are available free of charge or are already installed on major operating systems.

In order to determine what type of firewall is best for you, here are five questions to consider:

• What features are most important to me?
• Do I have a history of getting viruses and worms?
• What other security practices do I employ?
• How much am I willing to spend on a firewall solution?
• Do I use many programs that automatically access the Internet?

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Related items

• Review: Personal Firewalls for Administrators and Remote Users (13 March 2003)
• Review: Firewalls and Internet Security: Repelling the Wily Hacker 2/e (30 January 2003)