Firewall question

thodyconsulting · 10-02-2003, 05:59 PM

Hey,
I have a pretty elementary firewall question.

First, the network: 5-8 PCs, running anything from win 98 to xp, access internet through a server, running xp pro.

My question is, first of all, do I only need a firewall running on the server, and second, is XP's ICF good enough, or should I look at another firewall application? If so, recommendations?

Thanks very much in advance.

Cheers.

M_Six · 10-02-2003, 06:03 PM

Think of it this way, if someone from outside your network runs up against your XP firewall, they're ALREADY at the machine. On the other hand, if you have a stand-alone firewall, even something low-end like a Linksys router, they have to get past it first to even touch your network.

You can get a Linksys router for around $50. For that small sum, why risk it?

thodyconsulting · 10-02-2003, 06:04 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by M_Six
Think of it this way, if someone from outside your network runs up against your XP firewall, they're ALREADY at the machine. On the other hand, if you have a stand-alone firewall, even something low-end like a Linksys router, they have to get past it first to even touch your network.

You can get a Linksys router for around $50. For that small sum, why risk it?

Wow, you're right on the ball today! lol

Thanks

M_Six · 10-02-2003, 06:06 PM

BTW, Welcome to TechIMO. Lots of good folks here.

EDIT: Nice website, too. Looks like you folks do some nice work.

thodyconsulting · 10-02-2003, 06:09 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by M_Six
BTW, Welcome to TechIMO. Lots of good folks here.

Thanks!

I've lurked for some time actually, but now that I have a few practical questions, I'm glad there's a resource out there that I can pool.