Zone Alarm Firewall vs XP Firewall

[spaced]

Which is the best?

Why?

Can they both be used at the same time for added security?

[Mattk]

DO NOT USE XP FIREWALL !!!!
All the hackers are finding holes in it all the time.Use a 3rd party firewall such as the one you mention.

[camioneur]

I use them together and don't have a problem but I wouldn't use the XP one alone though I would use Zone Alarm alone.

Hope this helps

[fo3nix]

As well as the problems with XP's firewall as mentioned above, it's also not that hot because I believe it only has one-way protection, i.e., it only blocks inbound attacks.

A good firewall will also stop programs getting out from your computer onto the internet too. Zone Alarm is a good free one, personally I prefer Kerio Personal Firewall (also free), but both equally good.

It's best not to use two software firewalls at the same time since they may interfere with eachother, just like most people don't have two alarms on their houses or cars.

Do you have a router? If so, that'll do a pretty good job of blocking attacks too most likely.

[strugglin']

Kerio is not free (trial only), but Comodo firewall is free. Which ever you use, check it out at www.grc.com shields up tests.

[fo3nix]

struglin: Kerio is free. I'm using it right now, and I didn't pay for it. I haven't had to re-download or re-install it for about a year.

[jenson65]

try www.ashampoo.com a new and free firewall and very good .