Hi,

I have successfully networked my XP computer to a smaller capacity Win 2000 computer. I run Zone Alarm AntiVirus (Firewall and AntiVirus) on the XP machine and AVG 7 on the Win 2000 machine. My modem/router has it's own firewall as well. Do I need to have a separate firewall on the Win 2000 machine or is it protected by Zone Alarm on the XP machine and the modem/router firewall. So far I have not had any bugs on the Win 2000 machine...

Your advice would be appreciated.

Many thanks,

Ian

Re: Networking and Firewalls

The firewall in one PC is not protecting the other. But the firewall in the modem/router is protecting both. Having both a firewall in the modem/router and in the PC too is like wearing both a belt and braces to keep your trousers up. The combination of both does provide better protection, but its more than most people would consider necessary.

Re: Networking and Firewalls

Hi Ian....

The software firewall you have on one machine is only protecting that one box.

The other machine would also need a software firewall install to protect it.

However as your router has a 'make do' type firewall this should also be setup, and then would protect the two boxes connected.

If you are extra worried about security (firewall type) then it might be worth looking at a 'REAL' hardware firewall, ie. Cyberguard SG 300 would be perfect for this type of setup. @ around $400-$500... it is a very cost effective "real" firewall... but you may not need it, unless you are extra worried, or doing mass private amounts of internet related work...

I actually used to run Nortans Internet Security, with the firewall on my Linksys wireless router, and still managed to hack the firewall, popped in one of the SG300.... and never had any problems since...

:)

Hope this helps...