ZoneAlarm at startup

I have ZA set to run at startup, but it really slow Windows down when loading the desktop. The program says it needs to run at startup in order to function properly when I'm online. Is this true, or can I just run ZA from the Start Menu after Windows has loaded? TIA.

 

ZA is, IMO, a PIA and I'd suggest that you look at either Kerio or Outpost as alternatives. You'll find a discussion on the merits of the various alternatives here.

If, however, you would rather stick with ZA, then there is no reason why it *must* be set to run at boot. If, however, you were to launch ZA after you've booted, then, depending on how you connect to the net, you could be connected for a period without the benefit of being firewalled.

 

I'm connected thru a cable modem, but I'd enable it before turning the modem on.

 

I agree that ZA is a bit of a pain. I found that it prevented my laptop from reuming properly from sleep mode. I changed to Agnitum Outpost which is very flexible.