PC Question

[bo_selecta]

Here's a question i could do with some help on from the more technically minded people [-?]

I've just got an ADSL service for the internet on my PC at home and the documents that came with it said I should install a firewall and anti-virus software.

I'm using AVG Anti Virus Software - does anyone know would this be sufficient or do i need a firewall as well?

If i do - which one should i use ?

Any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

[kevSaMo]

Here's a link to a faq page on the subject.

http://www.dslreports.com/faq/security

basically there are 2 types of firewall, hardware or software.
Using a router between the dsl modem and your pc is often a good choice as most new routers come with firewall, and, if you ever want to expand your system it makes it easier (adding another pc or laptop to your dsl line, printer sharing etc..)

Hope this helps.

[)]
k

[redbulljunkie]

hardware firewall is overkill for your requirement. AVG anti-virus is very good anti-virus software, just make sure you update it regularly. As for firewall, not sure if it's strictly necessary, especially with a windows pc which probably won't have servers running. If you're running Windows XP then that comes with a firewall which you can enable by going to the properties of your network connection

[admin]

theres 2 procuducs for non xp uers-

http://blackice.iss.net/product_pc_protection.php

http://www.symantec.com/sabu/nis/nis_pe/

[amnesiac]

Admin and RBJ, I loooooooooooove it when you guys talk all techey....

(Actually I just feel really thick! When am I getting those programming classes admin!?!?!?)

[bo_selecta]

Thanks Kev, RBJ and Admin - as always you have been a great help - Cheers.

[damien]

Get a Firewall Program called ZoneAlarm, its really effective. Its a paranoid piece of software which is what you need.

[bo_selecta]

Cheers Damien...but since I got the broadband in, my pc got fried! It seems the motherboard doesn't want to work anymore! It was an old enough pc anyway...but i liked it...looks like i'll have to fork out for a new one now -(

[damien]

Claim it on the insurance after a thunderstorm.

[bo_selecta]

now why didn't I think of that -)

[damien]

You have a conscience.... I'm a sneaky s.o.b.

[bo_selecta]

new p.c. here we come!!!! Cheers again Damien !