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Bungleau · 05-23-2008, 08:55 AM

What's your internet connection? Dial-up, broadband, or something else?

My suggestion... a simple Linksys gateway/router will do the trick. Set it up between your computer and your modem, activate NAT, and you cover almost everything coming in from outside. And if you're gaming on-line, you can open up a hole for your gaming connection.

You still need a software firewall to cover things from the inside trying to get out. Hardware firewalls won't do that... they just stop it from getting in. I also wouldn't go with just a software firewall, either. Having a hardware firewall adds one more layer, making it harder for the average person to get in to your system.

My Linksys wireless router (WRT54G) serves as wireless access point, DHCP server, firewall, and probably a couple more things. I haven't had to touch it in a while, so I don't pay as much attention to it. Lots of protection without realizing that it's there, and inexpensive as well... looks like $45 on-line.

05-23-2008, 08:55 AM	#5
Bungleau 40th Level Warrior Join Date: October 29, 2001 Location: Western Wilds of Michigan Posts: 11,752	Re: New Hardware Firewall Suggestions? What's your internet connection? Dial-up, broadband, or something else? My suggestion... a simple Linksys gateway/router will do the trick. Set it up between your computer and your modem, activate NAT, and you cover almost everything coming in from outside. And if you're gaming on-line, you can open up a hole for your gaming connection. You still need a software firewall to cover things from the inside trying to get out. Hardware firewalls won't do that... they just stop it from getting in. I also wouldn't go with just a software firewall, either. Having a hardware firewall adds one more layer, making it harder for the average person to get in to your system. My Linksys wireless router (WRT54G) serves as wireless access point, DHCP server, firewall, and probably a couple more things. I haven't had to touch it in a while, so I don't pay as much attention to it. Lots of protection without realizing that it's there, and inexpensive as well... looks like $45 on-line. __________________ B Save Early, Save Often Save Before, Save After Two-Star General, Spelling Soldiers -+-+-+ Give 'em a hug one more time. It might be the last.