Questions about hardware firewalls.....

[Swivel]

As i understand it, hardware firwalls are better than software ones? I'm not really sure what exactly hardware firewalls are. From what I've read, are they those routers?
They seems quite expensive for the most part.

As you can see im new to the world of internet protection(curently on 56k, moving on to dsl in 'bout 1 month)

[cljeff2]

There really isn't a difference in either type of wall. They both do the same thing, except one is software and one hardware. I would stick with ZA Pro, cause I think it's easier to configure than any hardware wall, but it falls to preference really. The safer wall is whichever one has the least bugs and security flaws. No firewall is equal.

[legalmind]

Hardware all the way!!!!! If they hit software, they have found you. Hardware puts another wall in front of you. You can only read the hardware and not the computer.
Kind of like a high wall in front of your house to make it simple.

[JANDOENT]

A hardware "Firewall" is definately the best to keep others out of your 'puter. If you also use a software firewall, it will keep programs inside your 'puter from accessing the net on their own. Be carefull if you are going to buy a hardware firewall. All routers are not firewalls and neither are NAT's. Look at some of the earlier posts to get an idea. Be sure it is an actual firewall and not just acts like one. http://www.speedguide.net/ubb/wink.gif

[dmsmed]

I can't complain about the Linksys, it took 45 min (first time ever) to set up and works like a charm.

[Swivel]

Could someone maybe reccommend me some hardware firwalls to take a look at? Like certain models. I havent made any decision to move on to hardware, but would just like a grasp of what is "top of the line". And what some good deals may be. Thanx

[JANDOENT]

Hey swivel, this will give you a comparison of several firewalls. http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/hwrouter_chart.htm
You will also find some reviews at these sites: http://www.coremeltdown.com/ http://www.speedcorp.net/networking/reviews/ http://www.speedguide.net/reviews/index.shtml
Our Speed Guide moderators, John and Brent, review a lot of products. I'm sure that they will give you their opinion if you ask them. Look in their profiles for their addresses.

[Swivel]

Thanks again http://www.speedguide.net/ubb/biggrin.gif