Firewall software is designed to block unauthorized access while permitting authorized communications. Firewalls are frequently used to prevent unauthorized Internet users from accessing private computers or networks connected to the Internet.Firewalls can be implemented in either hardware or software, or a combination of both.
First let us check the features of Windows Firewall and then we will check the the three best freeware Firewall software available today.
Windows Firewall
Windows Firewall is a component of Microsoft Windows that provides firewalling and packet filtering functions.Before Windows XP it was known as Internet Connection Firewall.Windows Firewall was first introduced as part of Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Windows Server 2003.
The drawback of Windows XP’s Firewall is that it cannot block outbound connections.WIndows XP firewall is only capable of blocking inbound connections.Windows Vista Firewall provides Outbound packet filtering as well as inbound filtering.You should always leave Microsoft Windows Firewall turned on until you replace it with third-party software like freeware firewalls mentioned below.The Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP Service Pack 2 or 3 operating systems have firewalls built in that are turned on by default.
Personal Firewall softwareaddresses many drawbacks of windows firewall component.
Best Firewall freeware software
PC Tools Firewall Plus
PC Tools Firewall Plus Free Edition is one of the best personal free firewall for Microsoft Windows. PC Tools Firewall Plus protects your computer from hackers and intruders.PC Tools Firewall Plus is available for Windows 7 (32/64bit), Windows Vista (32/64bit) and Windows XP (32bit).
PC Tools Firewall Plus is a two-way firewall, monitoring incoming and outgoing traffic from a computer.
DOWNLOAD PC Tools Firewall Plus
ZoneAlarm® Free Firewall
ZoneAlarm is another popular and best software firewall that includes an inbound intrusion detection system as well as outbound traffic control system.The freeware version includes a web and local network firewall with outbound program control and port stealthing.The CNet Reiew says “The bottom line: ZoneAlarm Firewall Free 9.2 has gotten quieter and more effective, and should be considered an excellent tool for replacing the adequate default Windows firewall with a stronger option that includes better outbound protection, antiphishing guards, and ZoneAlarm’s behavioral detection network. ”
DOWNLOAD ZoneAlarm® Free Firewall
Comodo Firewall Pro
Comodo’s Firewall, Comodo Firewall Pro is another well known Firewall software.Comodo Firewall Pro defends your PC from Internet attacks and prevents malware from ever being installed.It is an award winning freeware firewall.
DOWNLOAD Comodo Firewall
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