ZoneAlarm Comments

[dr_roberts49]

I've been thinking about installing ZoneAlarm (free version). I used it a few years ago, when I got my first broadband connection from Comcast, and it worked pretty good, once I got it tuned up to my prefrences.

I recently upgraded to Windows XP Pro, and was planning on using its Firewall, but read some negative reviews. I thought about ZoneAlarm, went to their web site, and downloaded the latest version. I also went to CNET and read all the reviews. I think it was about 76% in favor, and 24% against. I did see a common thred in both the plus and negative, about it being a resource hog. I currently have only 512 MGs of DDR3200 running in dual mode, and won't be adding more memory for about another 6 weeks (a lot depends on what Isabel does in terms of damage to my home). Any comments?

Also, I now have a DLS connection, and have 4 other computers hooked into our Linksys home network. I couldn't find any comments regarding a home network in the product reviews. When I had ZoneAlarm before, it was only on my system. No shared network. Will my settings affect the other computers? Will I have to take a more active part as network administrator? My kids use instant messenger a lot (we're not AOHELL customers). Will I have to fine-tune that?

Some of the negative reviews also complained about ZoneAlarm adding spyware and pop-ups. The positive side only mentioned a nag screen, which is fine by me. They had that on the older version I used. Would love to hear from anyone who has gone this route before me. Thanking all in advance

Robert

[Droppyale]

I say use it... I've never had a problem with ZA...

if you configure it right, it will work flawlessly.

[implexant]

I find ZoneAlarm to be a pain in the butt.

I always configure client's machines to use the Windows XP firewall for their dialup/DSL connections. It kept the blaster virus off their machines like a charm.

Make sure you have a good anti-virus program too, firewalls aren't supposed to stop trojans, that's what firewalls are for.

I run a IPTables firewall/NAT router for myself. Runs on RH7.3. You can get another machine and make it into a firewall if you really want to get fancy

-Chris

[dr_roberts49]

implexant, I had always planned on using XP's firewall, but I was told it has limitations. I want to keep trojan intruders out, but at the same time, I don't want to be jumping through hoops, if my kids complain that their friends can't IM them or send a picture. I haven't loaded either one yet. For virus protection, I'm running AVG until I can afford to buy Norton. I really appreciate the feedback.

Droopydale, have you found ZA to be a resources hog? I want protection, but I'm wary of programs that hog too many resources. If I can scale it down, that would be nice. I used Norton's System Works 2000, and it had a lot of resource hog apps, but you could configure it to run just the basics, and run the other utilities manuelly when you needed them. Unfortunately, System Works 2000 doesn't work with XP Pro. I hope to buy the newer version in a few weeks. Thanks for the info.

Robert

[Bovon]

Originally posted by implexant
Make sure you have a good anti-virus program too, firewalls aren't supposed to stop trojans, that's what firewalls are for.

HUH?!?

[DanGrease]

I have also had a lot of problems with Zone Alarm, but besides them its an excellent firewall, and I have friends that just love it. Myself I must say I love Norton's firewall because of many reasons that I am not getting in to right now. I would say if you dont have problems with Zone Alarm keep it, if you do, get an other, my favorites are Norton and Sygate. And for Norton being a recourse hog, true, but your specs supports it. Hope this helps

dan

dr_roberts49 with the linksys routers, i have not been able to get direct connect or sending files thru aim to work properly. even with the right ports forwarded.

i use ZA on my ftp server and i havent experienced any slow downs or resource hog issues. (which i access remotely through remote administrator) Basically if you do go the way of the ZA, disable winxp firewall. it will be pointless after that. After you get all the programs you want set up to access the internet its pretty simple.

the ocassional program will need reminders if it can access the internet

moved to Security section