Techsurvivors

Archives => 2003 => Topic started by: Greg Dunn on May 13, 2003, 12:51:50 PM

Title: Firewall Software
Post by: Greg Dunn on May 13, 2003, 12:51:50 PM

I'm about to get Earthlink broadband installed, and since I have 2 computers, I'm going to install an AirPort network for the two of them.  Will I need some kind of firewall software, and if so, does anybody have any suggestions as to what program I should buy?

Title: Firewall Software
Post by: Gregg on May 13, 2003, 12:54:35 PM

Do you have secrets?  

I remember seeing something called NetBarrier awhile back. I think the company is Intego or something like that. My ISP has a firewall, so I have no need for my own. Maybe someone else can be more helpful...

Title: Firewall Software
Post by: giantmike on May 13, 2003, 01:15:29 PM

Well, everything depends on how you will set up the network, and what OS you will be running.

If you are going to get a wireless router (I suggest you do) or and Apple Airport Base Station, then there is no need for a software firewall. The units have NAT (Network Address Translation) built into them, which works as a very secure firewall.

Also, if you are running OS X, there is already a software firewall built into the OS. If you are running anything before Jaguar, you will need some software such as Brickhouse to easily manage the firewall. However, if you have Jaguar, You can easily manage your software firewall in the System Preferences -> Sharing.

If you are setting your network up in such a way as to not have OS X and with no router or base station, then you will have to look into firewall solutions that others may have more experience with.

Title: Firewall Software
Post by: Greg Dunn on May 13, 2003, 02:15:52 PM

Thanks, you answered my questions.  To answer yours:
1-Yes, I have secrets.  Our whole life is on the computer.
2-AirPort base station, Jaguar, so now I know that the firewall is already there.  Thanks, all!