Windows 7, firewall, is it good enough?

[Crafty]

I am just wondering if to install a free firewall for Windows 7 Ultimate. However, I'd like to know if the one already built into Windows 7 Ultimate is just as good? What are your thoughts om this.Thanks!!

[Allan]

The built in fire wall is excellent at preventing incoming threats but does nothing to prevent outgoing traffic (ie, malware sending out info). Having said that, I've never used a third party firewall on any system. I use the built in Windows firewall, a router (which has a NAT firewall), and several anti malware utilities. In the end, it's your call.

[Crafty]

I also have a firewall on my router, so do you think the two will be good enough? Thanks!!

[Allan]

It is for me. As I said, I also am very careful about viruses and malware.

[Crafty]

Do I need to change the Windows 7 firewall settings after an install, or will the default settings be good enough? Thanks!!

[BC_Programmer]

The built in fire wall is excellent at preventing incoming threats but does nothing to prevent outgoing traffic (ie, malware sending out info). Having said that, I've never used a third party firewall on any system. I use the built in Windows firewall, a router (which has a NAT firewall), and several anti malware utilities. In the end, it's your call.

Windows Vista and 7's Firewall filter both ingoing and outgoing connections.

[Allan]

Thanks BC. They do indeed. I was mentally stuck in XP mode 

[patio]

See how you are ? ? ?

[Allan]

 

[patio]

 

 

[TheShadow]

All the big grins aside, here's one answer that nobody likes to hear, because it points the finger back at the true source of the problem.....the user.

Keep the ET's off of your computer and you'll never have to worry about one of them wanting to "Phone Home".

That's why I have for years advocated that every computer has a "Package" of Security Software installed that can either block or find and remove all viruses, trojans, worms and Spyware.

No one program from just one company will do the job and do it correctly. 

Nice seeing you again 'Patio'

The Shadow