Similar to a security system for your house, a firewall lets in the people you want, but helps safeguard your PC from intruders by blocking unauthorized access to your system or network.
How a firewall works
When a firewall is installed on a PC or network, all data sent to and from the PC is monitored and compared with your firewall's set of security criteria. Any data that doesn't meet those criteria is blocked. For instance, if you try to access a website that doesn't meet your firewall's security criteria, your firewall will block that website for your safety. You can always choose to unblock trusted websites on a site-by-site basis or modify your firewall's criteria to meet your specific needs.
Two types of firewalls
- Host-based firewall—If you have only one PC to protect, install software directly on it to create a host-based firewall.
- Network-based firewall—Protect multiple PCs in your home with a network-based firewall installed between your DSL or cable modem and your home network.
Built-in protection
Home users rarely need complex firewall systems, and your computer or networking equipment may already have a firewall installed.
Follow these 5 steps to ensure the firewall is enabled.
1. Click Start, then select Control Panel.
2. Click Security, and then select Windows Firewall.
3. Click Turn Windows Firewall On
If you have a different version of Windows or a Macintosh, check to see if a firewall is installed. You can do so by checking for firewall programs in your Program Files folder in Windows, or the Applications folder for Mac. Also, check the manuals of your home networking devices to find out if they include built-in hardware firewalls.
Firewall software solutions
If you currently do not have a firewall installed, it's easy to add protection using third-party software.
The Norton Personal Firewall from Symantec is an easy-to-use software solution that prevents confidential information from being sent out from your PC without your knowledge. This software typically costs between $50 and $100. Symantec also has an you can use to test your exposure to Internet threats and identify your security needs.1
By adding a firewall to your PC, you'll help keep your data safe and where it belongs—only on
your computer.