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Tutorials > Firewall - protect your computer & network > Why your computer should have a firewall Why your computer should have a firewallLeaving your computer without a firewall exposes you to all kinds of harmful viruses, spyware and hackers amongst other things. Your computer without a firewall is like you leaving your car running with the keys in the ignition while you go to the shop. You may get back to your car in time, but any opportunist may take it. On the Internet, hackers use malicious code—such as viruses, worms, and Trojan horses—to try to find unprotected computers. A firewall can help protect your computer against these and other security attacks. Hackers, viruses, malware, spyware, etc can all damage your PC, delete files, steal your information, disrupt your programs. Some spyware is written to steal your credit card details or internet banking details and send it to a person who can use it to steal your money or information. However, its not all doom and gloom, there are ways to protect against these threats! Microsoft Windows Firewall with Windows XPIf you are using Window XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), the most updated version of Windows XP, you have a firewall built-in and turned on by default. Tip: If you have Windows XP and don't have service pack 2, goto: WindowsUpdate Protecting your networkIf you are on a network with other computers, having a good firewall in place on your connection to the internet is essential. You can use a firewall device or utilise a Linux Server running firewall software to protect your network. Similar Information from this category |