If you're thinking about or already have Broadband, Cable, or DSL ... you need a firewall.

The bottom line is that if you are using an internet connection that's always on, you're at risk of being hacked, your computer violated, and your data at risk. What would happen if a hacker gained access to your computer? Do you store sensitive or important information there? What is the implication of someone deleting all your data? Or worse - STEELING your data?

What most Internet Service Providers (ISP) will not tell you is that you need to protect your PC from unwanted access. A broadband provider will most likely happily install your fast internet connection, and never hint that you have now become at risk. Their job is to get you a fast internet connection. Beyond that, you're typically on your own. Unfortunately, there are people on the Internet constantly scanning public Internet Addresses for "holes", ways to get into a computer", and will violate your PC without notice. What's worse, they can use their own PCs and software to automatically scan at regular intervals, thereby automating the process.

It happens all too often. We've been called by people who just got Cable Modem and are all of a sudden (in days - or hours) experiencing computer trouble. Quite frankly, we get too many of these calls. And it is easily prevented. And YOU can prevent it.

So. What are you to do? Get a Firewall. A Firewall is a piece of hardware or software that stands between your Cable Modem (or other broadband device) and your PC's data. Firewalls come in two basic forms: A Cable/DSL Router or a piece of Software, like McAfee's or Norton's Internet protection products.

Our personal pick is a Cable/DSL Router. This piece of hardware costs around $70. It connects directly to your Cable Modem or DSL line. Your PC then connects to the Router instead of the Cable Modem or line. The thing that gives your PC protection is that the router converts your public Internet Address into a Private one. With a public address, anyone can reach out and touch your PC from the Internet. With a private address, no one can (unless you configure the router otherwise). Routers also have the added perk of being able to use multiple PCs over the same Internet connection without added cost from the ISP. Wireless routers are also available that let you connect to the internet from anywhere in your home without running a network wire to the PC.

The other firewall choice is to use a software firewall. Both Norton's "Internet Security 2003" (currently $69) and McAfee's "Personal Firewall" (currently $39) will do the trick. They both handle the most important security functions, keeping unwanted traffic away from your computer. The upside of these solutions is that they give you more control over which applications can use the internet connection, both on the inbound and outbound sides; routers only block inbound traffic (unless configured otherwise). Also, both vendors often bundle Virus Protection together with Internet Protection, making the package financially attractive. The downside is that software solutions can get in the way of your surfing without necessarily telling you about it. Often, the first step in troubleshooting internet problems is to shut down the firewall software, which defeats the purpose.

If you are considering Broadband, ask your provider if they will be protecting you with a firewall. If not, get a firewall BEFORE you connect your PC to the broadband connection.

If you already have Broadband, check with your ISP or installer to see if you already have a firewall (router or software). In fact, some DSL connections already provide a router with this functionality built in, but you'll need to check with your ISP to make sure it's enabled. If you are on a company network, ask your Network Administrator about it.

If you're not protected ... act now. Because if you are not protected, it's only a matter of time before you are hacked.

DISCLAIMER: Installing a firewall is not a 100% guarantee that everything will be fine. If someone wants accesses to a computer, there's no stopping them. However, firewalls ARE your best line of defense against unwanted outside access to your PC.

Sewell Computer
Phone: 856-218-0943 • Fax: 856-218-0944