Question by thug_angel: Are software firewalls necessary if u have NAT firewall?
I hear NAT firewalls are completely fine for blocking incoming traffic, but software firewalls are needed to block spyware/adware from making outgoing connections to the internet. However if i scan regularly for malware is it really necessary to have a resource consuming software firewall?
Best answer:
Answer by steve_loir
NAT (Network Address Translation) only blocks some attacks. A software firewall blocks much more.
I use an old version (5.5) of Zone Alarm which works well for me. It only uses minimal resources.
Give your answer to this question below!
Most home network routers include a built-in hardware firewall (NAT-enabled) that monitors and blocks inbound communications at the network level.
By comparison, a PC firewall can monitor and block both inbound and outbound communications at the PC level. For the most complete protection, a PC firewall should be installed on every computer on a network. Combined, a router’s firewall and a PC firewall provide multiple layers of protection that a router firewall couldn’t provide by itself.
Even if you scan regularly for malware, and practice safe surfing habits, you cannot be entirely sure that your computer will never be infected. There is an old saying in our industry that the only way you can be sure your computer will be clean is to never turn it on in the first place.
Not all commercial software firewalls are resource-consuming.
I have a product suggestion here, if you are looking for a light application, I’d recommend Kerio 2.15:
http://www.321download.com/LastFreeware/page7.html
Good luck, let me know how it goes.