What is a Firewall?

A firewall is a program or piece of hardware that prevents unauthorized access to your computer or network.  There are four types of firewalls:

1. Screening Routers are the most basic type.  It sits between your computer or network and the Internet.
2. A Remote Server or Proxy Server.  Basically it's a computer that checks the the format of information being sent over a network to make sure that it's safe.
3. High Security Network Level Firewalls.  They check and compare data packets sent over the internet to data packets that are listed as being 'trusted' or safe.  These type of firewalls can help stop Denial of Service attacks and minimize the number of open ports so that they can stop hackers from accessing the network.
4. Software, or application firewalls are the most widely used.  These are suitable for individual computers.  It's a program that allows data to flow through it.  The user can choose which applications, like web browsers, instant messenger programs, etc., can access the internet.

Why Should I Install a Firewall?

Many people nowadays have 'always on' connections to the interent.  Unfortunately, this makes it easier for a hacker to gain access to your computer.  When a hacker accesses your computer, they are looking to steal information such as credit card numbers, social insurance numbers, bank account numbers, etc.  They can also use your computer by remote control to do the same thing to other computers.

Why do I have to Pay a Subscription Fee for a Firewall?

To be perfectly honest, firewalls are not always completely effective against hackers.  Every day there is a new program or method developed by hackers to circumvent security settings placed on computers and information.  Firewall developers are constantly forced to create new methods for blocking the hackers.  This constant battle between developers and hackers makes it necessary for the ordinary user to update their firewalls (as well as antivirus software) on a regular basis in order to keep themselves safe.