Internet Security

Graeme7777

Hi,

What sort of security does the BT Home Hub (wireless) offer and how does it different from that offered by a firewall like Norton, Symantec etc?

Thanks!

albertross_2

If people try to probe your network, it will ignore the data, so stops people hacking your ports from outside. (subject to the odd known bug/exploit for the HH). However if you don't encrypt the wireless, the neighbours can get in instead.

Norton does the same, but is software, and therefore less robust, because it can be turned off by malware more easily. Norton will also have outbound protection, which in theory helps stop malware talking out.

Ice_2

Graeme7777 wrote: »

Hi,

What sort of security does the BT Home Hub (wireless) offer and how does it different from that offered by a firewall like Norton, Symantec etc?

Thanks!

personally I hated mine (it's now in a cupboard waiting to recycle) don't know about security but I got fed up with mine saying I could not connect to internet...so went back to my trusted netgear....:)

Graeme7777

Thanks!

To take the question a little further, would the BT Home Hub and Vista Firewall together provide adequate security against incoming probes and data "leaking" out?

gavsto2005

Hi Graeme,

Assuming you don't add shed loads of exceptions the vista firewall is fine for home use. If you are still unsure you can still find FREE firewalls on the net

Toastie

Graeme7777 wrote: »

Thanks!

To take the question a little further, would the BT Home Hub and Vista Firewall together provide adequate security against incoming probes and data "leaking" out?

Never think that Norton or any stand alone software or hardware will keep you protected. Within the last 12months the increase of multiple software needs has increased.

Not to scare you, simply look at a better firewall which has a better results in tests.

Firewalls:

• Comodo (this is the best so far on tests but is not for anyone who isn't handy with computers - can be tricky)
• Online Armor Personal Firewall V2 is a new firewall with alot of praise, more simple to use but these are on your personal use not mine

Avoid zonealarm simply because the paid for version is fantastic, very secure, however less care is used on the free version and is simply very poor.

Adware / scumware / spyware remover:

For me hands down is Spyware Doctor Starter Edition (http://www.download.com/Spyware-Doctor-Starter-Edition/3000-8022_4-10704508.html) simply because of its excellent removal techniques.

This should be suitable, use in conjunction with http://www.pandasoftware.com/activescan/activescan/ascan_2.asp should be suitable for alot of home use. However always read reviews of software before downloading.

Sorry about the essay.

BillScarab

The Vista firewall is not very secure as outboudn protection is turned off by default. You're better off with one of the free ones.

However I disagree with Toastie, i use the free vreison of Zone Alarm and have doen for some time and have never had any issues with it.