Windows XP Firewall


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I don't use it personally, but from what I have read it works well.

Is the XP Firewall any good?

Yes, it's very good.

In comparison, it is very similar in configurability and functionality to BlackIce, but seems to be a step up in the security level.

It is not so good once you need to create rules for some applications or external users to gain access from the web. Its configuration only allows for the opening of ports rather than say, IP addresses, and this means that anyone with the required skill can use the same port to access your PC.

...from the the Ozcableguy's site.

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It's the only thing I use... it's awesome... I've tried many of those sites that check you for open ports and it can't even find mine. And what's more... it doesn't hog RAM like Zone Alarm and BlackICE.

BTW... why would it "cause more harm than good"? :right: :dead:

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The only thing it doesn't do is block illegal access outbound. Example: spyware/trojans....

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it's the only firewall i use. I don't see the sense of adding another one because who would want to hack into my system.. it's got nothing on there so nobody would want to hack it. I know firewalls stop trojans and all that and stop applications from sending out your info but just buy your software and scan it for spyware and you're set.. :) but.. oh well.. that's just my thoughts..

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From what i understand, WXP firewall works by blocking all non-standard ports. that's why when i try to run mIRC, it doesnt work, because WXP firewall blocks the IDENTD port.

If i had the time, i'd just modify the TCP/IP settings, and insert all the protocols that I use.

Also, the Firewall does not stop outbound packets, like ZoneAlarm and other firewalls. So if you get infected with a trojan, the firewall is not effective.

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yes it does work.. just right click my network places on the start menu or browse thru the control pannel till your get network connections and right click your connection icon then choose properties then go to the advanced tab. Just click add at the bottom and name it whatever you want.... "indent" might help.. :) then just put in your IP or computer name (better) exactly like it is and then put in PORT 113 for the first one and whatever else for the second one.. it wouldn't kill ya to put 113 in the second one too and click ok. Now just sign on!!!

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IMHO, it doesn't even deserve a name "firewall", instead "portblocker" would fit more :p It simply block port, and that's not all "firewall" can do :p

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Is there anyway to open a port though without specifying an IP address? I just want to open the port for my school mail, but it won't work and reading my mail is slow as hell.

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You wanna open a port on your own machine (i.e. allow someone to initiate a connection with your machine)? or do you wanna connect to a port at a destination IP?

Doing the first one requires that you mess around with your firewall settings. Doing the second one requires nothing if you use XP firewall. Just make sure that the destination IP is listening on that port.

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Yeah, you actually can connect to mIRC with the firewall activated. It just takes 10000000000 years. :)

I use it just for the sake of having a firewall...to stop all those newbie hackers :rambo:

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