Hardware/Software Firewall ?

[Coaster]

Hello Folks,

I am using a Cable Modem for Internet access. Since with a Cable Modem I am always connected to the Internet for security reasons I installed a Linksys BEFSX41 cable firewall router. I have also been using Sygate Personal Firewall Pro as software firewall.

Is using Sygate Personal Firewall Pro with the Linksys BEFSX41 firewall router overly redundant or is there benefit in using Sygate Personal Firewall Pro with the Linksys BEFSX41 firewall router?

Regards,
Coaster

 

[ipdave]

I have the Linksys also and use a software host-based firewall / ids also. A layered defense will stop more than a single one.

The combination is the best.

 

[roadworker]

A router with hardware firewall can stop unwanted incoming traffic,a software firewall can stop unwanted outgoing traffic too......the combination of both gives your system a better overall security.
If you're worried about your internet speed performance,you can also use a sandboxer like System Safe Monitor in combination with your hardware firewall to prevent unwanted outgoing traffic.

 

[LTR12101B]

The router can only discard unwanted incoming junk.

You may have to open some ports in the router, if applications need oncoming ports (P2P or IM/voice/video clients often do), and the router cannot assist with outgoing blocking / application permissions.

The router does provide quite good protection against attacks on the Windows TCP/IP stack, since most, if not ALL of them should be among the dropped incoming junk.