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Firewall still needed with router?

Discussion in 'Security and Privacy' started by psaulm119, 2005/01/01.

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  1. 2005/01/01
    psaulm119 Lifetime Subscription

    psaulm119 Geek Member Thread Starter

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    Hello folks. I just installed a Linksys router (to use with VOIP). I have used Sygate's freebie firewall quite happily for the last couple of years. I seem to recall something about not needing a firewall if you have a router. Not having had one until the last few days, I ignored this, but now I'm wondering--do I still need one? I would assume that I would (to block malware from phoning home), but am I now "stealthy" according to GRC standards, even without a firewall?

    EDIT--well there's nothing like actually trying something, to see if it works :eek:

    I just disabled my firewall and my Shields Up test said I was all green, all 1056 of the ports were stealth. But my question still stands--how would I benefit from keeping my firewall?
     
    Last edited: 2005/01/01
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  2. 2005/01/02
    TonyT

    TonyT SuperGeek Staff

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    A software firewall can be used in conjunction with the router, it's a matter of user preference and skills. I used to run Black Ice Defender until I got a router about 5 yrs ago, and since then I have not used a software firewall.

    The softwall has the advantage of monitoring OUTbound traffic while the router only stops unwanted inbound traffic. What outbound traffic needs to be monitored? Spyware, worms, viruses, etc. But if one is skilled and confident in those skills and knows one's system, then the outbound does not need to be monitored. Or if the system is used by other people such as kids, then the softwall is advantageous.

    Also, if using a laptop and varying network connections (wired & wireless), using a software firewall can be beneficial because one never knows the security holes in a network that someone else is managing. The software firewall can be disabled and enabled as needed.
     
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  4. 2005/01/02
    charlesvar

    charlesvar Inactive Alumni

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    Hello psaulm119,

    Another issue is contolling the behavior of "legitimate" apps such as: looking for updates, listening for connections.

    Regards - Charles
     
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  5. 2005/01/02
    psaulm119 Lifetime Subscription

    psaulm119 Geek Member Thread Starter

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    Yeah I think I'll keep it going for now. Thanks for the replies.

    Charles, long time no see. I haven't posted much in PCMag or extremetech lately. No real problems on my pc--I guess that's a good sign!

    I'll let folks know how the VOIP is working for me in a few months--it looks like I'll be saving 20-30/month, after an initial investment of some 60 bucks for the cable modem. But of course, these are just projections--actual savings may or may not be that much.

    Take care.
     
    psaulm119,
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  6. 2005/01/03
    charlesvar

    charlesvar Inactive Alumni

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    Hi psaulm,

    Charles, long time no see. I haven't posted much in PCMag or extremetech lately.

    I thought there was something familiar about your user name :)

    Happy New Year!!

    Charles
     
    charlesvar,
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