How To Set Up a Firewall

Every day there are new security threats that computer users must fear.  Although computers are an essential part of the world, they can easily fall victim to a number of issues.  Hackers can tap into computer systems and gather passwords and private information.  Viruses can slow down computers and tamper with a number of programs.

One of the best ways to guarantee security is by setting up a firewall.  A firewall will protect your computer from the malicious programs that can damage your computer.  Firewalls work by scanning data and making sure that this data complies with the settings you choose.  To set up a firewall, you first need to choose which one you would like.  You will make this decision based on how much protection your computer needs.

One of the most common types of firewall is the Windows XP firewall, since it is built into every system.  In the past, it was difficult for users to keep up with the updated patches to protect their computers, so Windows XP systems now have a firewall built in.  To use the firewall, you can go to the 'start' menu, click on 'control panel' and choose 'network and internet connections'.  You will then choose your internet connection, which should be the at the top of the page.  Then go to the 'advanced' tab and click the box that says 'internet connection firewall'.

If you do not have Windows XP, you can set up your firewall by choosing an online application.  Simply search for the firewall that best suits your needs.  The higher the security and features that you want, the more these programs will cost.  When you have chosen a firewall, simply download it onto your computer. A box will pop up asking you to download and install the program.  Follow the installation process and choose your firewall settings.  You can even choose to block the internet entirely.

If you're looking for something other than a software-based firewall program, setting up a hardware firewall, or router, may be for you.  This is an appliance that is installed in between your modem and computer.  These devices include firewall protection and act as protection for a whole network, not just a specific computer.  To set up your firewall, you will need to use a web browser to search through the built-in IP address of the router.  There will be web pages that you can navigate through, which are associated with your router, to modify the security settings to your standards.