Install and use a firewall

A computer without a firewall is like a house without doors—there is nothing controlling who and what enters or leaves.

A firewall monitors information going in and out of your computer. It can be in the form of a software program or a piece of hardware. It is designed to let through the websites and files you want to view on the Internet and block those that you don't.

Have a firewall permanently turned on as the first line of defense against viruses, spyware and hackers. Always use a firewall as well as anti-virus and anti-spyware software.

It is important to have a firewall installed to ensure that you can control what is being installed on your computer. For increased security, any computer or computer networks connected to the Internet should have firewall protection.

What you need to do…

Install and configure a firewall on your computer.

There are two types of firewalls: software firewalls or hardware firewalls. Many people use both forms because most computers and modems often come with firewalls.

Software firewalls

To check if your computer has a software firewall look in the main program menu for any program name that mentions security or firewalls.

It is important to configure your firewall properly so it can protect your computer. Some firewalls have tutorials that can help you configure your firewall properly. You can also look into the help section in your firewall program.

From time to time, your firewall will ask you questions about whether you want to access a particular website. Make sure you read the questions carefully and don't just click on the yes button.

There is a wide range of other specialist software available that provides a good level of protection. See the Internet Industry Association's, firewalls section on their Managing Security portal

Some software is available as 'freeware', i.e. no cost to home users, although some of these may have fewer functions.

Hardware firewalls

Hardware firewalls can be built into your modem of the external pieces of hardware used to connect computers to the Internet e.g. routers.

When you connect two or more computers to the Internet, you will often use a router although this is not essential. If you do, it is recommended that you configure the router to ensure that the computers 'behind' this router are 'hidden' from the Internet. This stops would-be hackers getting access to your computers.

If you have doubts about hardware firewalls on any device in your home or office, look up the website of the hardware vendor and do a search for the term 'firewall'.

Further information

Refer to the Internet Industry Association's, firewalls section on their Managing Security portal