Which firewall is better to use. What is the best firewall for Windows
The little son came to his father and the little one asked:
- Whose defense is good, but whose is not so good?
I have no secrets, listen guys.
I publish my opinion on this matter below.
In fact, there is no best firewall, just like there is no best antivirus or browser - each computer user chooses his own best software product.
I may have disappointed many people now, but that’s how it is. A huge number of users believe that Comodo Firewall - the best free firewall and I don’t argue, but before it it worked fine for me for several years ESET NOD32 with its firewall, and after it I workedavast! Internet Security 2014, also with a firewall...
I never had any complaints about their protection until I experienced the last complex program for checking the reliability of the firewall. He failed the test and the decision was made to change the firewall. The choice fell on Comodo Firewall - it is tested for reliability and, of course, is completely free.
Today I want to describe to you some of the nuances of installing it and configuring it.
Our whole life is a search for something. Search for money, fame, love... the best firewall or browser.
Installing Comodo Firewall
The first question you may have is about the size of the installation file of this firewall - 202 MB! Why such a wild size? Because it has a whole bunch of unnecessary add-ons, they even shoved a browser into it.
I will now show you how to install one Comodo Firewall and after that you can safely remove this giant installer. But you still need to download the entire file using this link from the manufacturers’ official website (on the download page there is a button on the right)…
Some time ago I came across a lightweight installation file for this protective screen on the Internet, without any add-ons, but firstly, it was not official, and secondly, I lost the link.
Have you downloaded it? Installing Comodo Firewall...
Here they are - unnecessary additions. Uncheck them and move on...
I already described it to you how to find the fastest DNS servers, so - COMODO DNS servers are not only slow, but also completely scared!
If you leave the top checkbox you will get yourself a headache - half of the sites will be blocked!
Be sure to go to the “Customize installation” item!
Here it is, our dear one - what would it be without Yandex!!!
Of course we remove all the checkmarks
We look around and find out where we are. If you don’t have your own home local network, I recommend clicking “I’m in a public... place”
Congratulations! You have installed Comodo Firewall - the best free firewall.
Let's tweak it a little now...
Setting up Comodo Firewall
In fact, there are many configurations of this firewall settings - the Internet is littered with them (here is one of them). You can configure the defender in such a way that you won’t be able to breathe between its notifications, warnings and questions.
Or you can convince him to work quietly and unobtrusively - it’s up to you, I’ll give just a few tips below...
Go to the program settings...
...and check ALL the boxes in the advanced settings (as many people advise online), but if you have problems connecting to the Internet, uncheck the bottom two.
Here you can disable the display of the widget on the desktop if you don’t need it...
I left it, although I categorically do not like all sorts of widgets on the desktop. I edited it slightly by RIGHT-clicking on the firewall icon in the tray...
But here is the most terrible firewall setting, which will turn it into a real reinforced concrete wall...
Instead of safe mode, you can install...
In this mode, get ready for a million questions from the defense attorney on any occasion. But reliability check Now your Comodo Firewall will pass - 100%.
Questions from the firewall look like this...
You can check the box at the bottom of this window (remember...) and simply allow execution. This is if you know a program that is trying to access the network. You can also “Process as”...
This way we will get rid of repeated questions, for example about Nexus calling Clover.
After setting up Comodo Firewall, I strongly recommend scanning your computer - this way you will greatly reduce the number of firewall questions to you...
Most users, when deciding on computer security, limit themselves to installing commercial or, believing that this is quite enough for “one hundred percent” protection. However, this is not quite true.
The Internet is full of dangers and in most cases, it is through the network that malicious applications penetrate the computer, and then, having nestled in, they themselves begin to transfer the personal data of an unsuspecting user to the network, or use the computer to distribute spam or as a proxy server.
Therefore, it is so important that each computer also has a good firewall installed, or as they also say, a firewall. In this short review we bring to your attention seven best free firewalls: Ashampoo Firewall Free, PC Tools Firewall Plus, Emsisoft Online Armor Free, ZoneAlarm Free Firewall, Filseclab Personal Firewall Professional Edition, Outpost Firewall Free and Comodo Firewall. The choice is yours.
Ashampoo Firewall Free
First on our list is Ashampoo Firewall Free. Like most programs developed by the company, this firewall has a convenient and colorful interface with Russian language support and a built-in settings wizard.
To use the program, you must go through a simple registration procedure on the manufacturer’s website. In this case, a free code will be sent to the user's mailbox, which can be used to register Ashampoo Firewall.
Immediately after installation, the wizard will offer to configure the program by choosing one of two modes: “Simplified” and “Expert”. In most cases, it is recommended to use Expert mode.
The program has five main modules or sections. In the “Rules” section you can configure connection parameters for programs that use the Internet. The “Statistics” and “Journal” modules are purely informational. Here you can view data about all connections and events.
The “Configuration” module is intended for internal settings of the firewall itself. The “Utilities” section contains four additional tools, namely, a process manager, a utility for clearing Internet surfing history, and a pop-up blocker.
Ashampoo Firewall Free works approximately as follows: when an application for which there are no established rules tries to establish a connection, the firewall notifies the user about this, offering to create a new rule for this program, that is, allow or block its access to the network.
When you disable this function (learning mode), the dialog will not be shown, and all applications for which no rules have been set will be blocked automatically. You can also use the “Block all” option. In this case, the firewall will block all connections without exception.
PC Tools Firewall Plus
Next, we recommend that you pay attention to an excellent firewall called PC Tools Firewall Plus. Simple, free, with Russian language support, this firewall is one of the most reliable and effective, according to numerous user reviews. PC Tools Firewall Plus protects the system from unauthorized data transmission by Trojans, keyloggers and other malicious programs, and also prevents them from penetrating the computer.
It also supports flexible management of network traffic, creating your own rules, protecting settings with a password, and hiding the presence of a PC on the network. The program is easy to install and does not require registration and system reboot as is the case with Ashampoo Firewall.
Connection parameters are configured manually. It is advisable to do this immediately after installing the program, since by default PC Tools Firewall Plus marks some applications as unverified and therefore may partially block their operation. The firewall user interface has six to five main sections.
The Applications module is designed to manage programs and create rules for them. You can create a list of tested ports and IP addresses in the “Profiles” section, and if you want to analyze network traffic, you can switch to the “Operation” section. In the general settings, you can adjust the level of protection, set up filtering, full-screen mode, and also set a password to protect PC Tools Firewall Plus itself.
Emsisoft Online Armor Free
Third place on our list is taken by a free firewall from Emsisoft GmbH called Online Armor Free. The program has a fairly impressive set of protection tools against all kinds of online threats, as well as blocking malware that uses the Internet. Online Armor Free includes four main protection modules: firewall, web filter, proactive protection and anti-keylogger.
The firewall and web filter provide reliable protection against information leakage from the user’s computer, and also prevent unauthorized access attempts to the system by malicious scripts.
The proactive protection module allows you to control the behavior of programs and, if necessary, limit their activities.
Online Armor Free automatically scans your system for potentially dangerous applications and flags them accordingly. The firewall uses updated online databases to determine the security level of applications installed on the system.
Online Armor Free has a fairly simple and convenient interface with support for the Russian language. The main menu is located on the left side of the working window; the right side displays the program status, the date of the last database update, as well as the latest news from the developer’s website. Online Armor Free supports creating rules for programs, managing ports and devices, creating lists of ignored domains, controlling the startup of suspicious applications, as well as controlling permissions to change the HOSTS file.
The firewall's capabilities also include protection against spam, keyloggers, cookie blocking, site classification, and protection against forced changes to the home page address of Internet Explorer, Opera and Firefox browsers. Additional features of the application include support for virtual desktops, subnet scanning, as well as disabling HIPS and setting a password on the GUI.
ZoneAlarm Free Firewall
If the lack of the Russian language does not bother you, you can pay attention to ZoneAlarm Free Firewall - a very unique firewall in terms of design, designed to protect PCs when working on global and local networks.
The application has an easy interface with a minimum number of settings. Supports control of user programs (access list), Internet traffic tracking, checking email attachments, detailed logging, blocking pop-up windows and advertising banners.
In addition, the program has a cookie control function, which allows you to limit the transfer of confidential information to the websites you view. The user can set the protection level independently. You can download the ZoneAlarm web installer completely free from the developer’s website.
During the installation process of the package, in addition to the firewall, a number of additional protection tools are also installed - Web Identity Protections (web lock), Identity Protections (personal identification) and Online Backup (backup). After installing the firewall, you need to restart your computer.
Filseclab Personal Firewall Professional Edition
Filseclab Personal Firewall Professional Edition is another free, convenient and very simple firewall. The program supports creating individual rules for programs using a step-by-step wizard, filtering network access, viewing connections in real time, keeping logs, and monitoring traffic. Filseclab Personal Firewall responds to attempts by “doubtful” or new applications to open a connection by displaying a pop-up window asking you to create a corresponding rule.
The program uses three main security levels, each of which is marked with a corresponding color: green, yellow and red. In addition, for each level it is possible to create personal rules. Filseclab Personal Firewall has a fairly simple interface divided into seven sections.
The “Status” section displays the volume of traffic and the number of transmitted packets; “Monitor” displays the listening ports and application connections.
In the Rules section, you can set rules for a specific application or domain.
The remaining sections are of an informative nature. There is no Russian language in Filseclab Personal.
Outpost Firewall Free
The next firewall, Outpost Firewall Free, is perhaps one of the simplest and least demanding firewall systems. In this respect, it is akin to the standard Windows firewall, which, as a rule, is constantly present in the system and does not show itself :).
Outpost Firewall is a fairly easy-to-use program designed to protect against external intrusions, as well as unauthorized transfer of data by applications installed on the user’s computer. Unlike other firewalls, Outpost Firewall Free requires virtually no preliminary configuration.
The application supports monitoring of all incoming and outgoing connections, tracking software activity in real time, and extensibility using built-in modules. In the event of a threat or network activity of “dubious” programs, Outpost Firewall will notify the user about this and offer to allow or block the application that has declared itself.
Outpost Firewall Free has a very simple user interface, not burdened with “extra” functions. Russian language, unfortunately, is missing.
However, this is not so important - the program is simple enough that even a novice user can understand it. A few settings allow you to adjust the level of protection if necessary (up to completely blocking connections), as well as create exclusion rules for various programs and services.
Comodo Firewall
And finally, we suggest you briefly familiarize yourself with another free firewall, Comodo Firewall. This powerful, feature-rich program with an impressive set of tools is initially bundled with Comodo Antivirus, Comodo Defense and the Dragon web browser, but can also be installed separately.
The firewall provides complete protection against hacker attacks, Trojans, malicious scripts, keyloggers and other types of Internet threats. The application supports monitoring of incoming and outgoing traffic, working with ports, hiding a computer on the network, monitoring software and driver updates
Additional firewall functions include maintaining a detailed event log, integration into the Windows Security Center, quick switching between modes (from the system tray), system protection during startup, detection of unidentified files, viewing active processes and launching applications in a special sandbox (Sandbox).
With such a solid set of tools, Comodo Firewall has a simple Russian-language interface aimed at users inexperienced in network settings. All tools and functions of the application are distributed among four modules, and each option has a corresponding description.
Plus, the program is equipped with a system of interactive dialogues (pop-up windows), written in an extremely simple and understandable language for a novice user.
Bottom line
Choosing a good firewall can seem like a daunting task. And to make this work easier, let me give you some free advice. First, when choosing a firewall, pay attention to the opinions of experienced users and software testers. As a rule, a really good firewall leaves a lot of positive reviews.
Secondly, a good firewall should not enter into unreasonable conflicts with system drivers, popular applications and antiviruses, and also be able to work with Windows Security Center.
The presence of updated databases is also very desirable. In addition, a good firewall cannot be easily disabled from the Task Manager (this can be done with Filseclab Personal Firewall).
Thirdly, the firewall should not slow down the system in any way. For example, in this regard, the ZoneAlarm firewall seriously loses, since it is quite demanding on system resources and can slow down the work of a weak machine.
Also, before making your final choice, it is advisable to test the firewall using a special program 2ip Firewall Tester. Everything else, such as the presence of the Russian language, user-friendliness of the interface, external design, is secondary.
A firewall, or as it is also called a firewall, firewall and firewall, monitors and controls system connections between your computer, the network and the Internet in order to promptly detect and prevent attacks and intrusions. Programs of this class are especially useful in cases where it is necessary to control the Internet activity of installed applications.
No other free product makes the user more sad than a firewall. And the reason is simple, the process of finding a suitable firewall necessarily involves a process of trial and error. A good firewall should protect the system without being too intrusive or difficult to manage and configure. This review will provide you with the best free firewalls (according to this site) available today. Like all reviews, recommendations and advice are made based on the experiences of different people. Therefore, if you have ideas or interesting opinions, they are always welcome.
Note: The reader should understand that powerful firewalls with flexible rules settings always require knowledge in the field of network design. However, even in their case there must be a more or less clear way of administration.
There are two types of firewalls - programs and hardware devices. Firewalls, which come in the form of programs (which are discussed in this article), are installed on your computer and run in the background to closely monitor system activity in real time. As with many security features, to avoid potential conflicts that may even involve manually deleting files from boot drives, it is recommended to install only one firewall. Hardware firewalls are usually a special device with embedded logic and filtering-optimized modules (for example, special processors whose instruction set includes operations with IP addresses). You can use software and hardware firewalls together. For example, modern routers typically include a built-in firewall and, depending on the type of router, it may not only be firmware (as device programs are called), but also partially implemented at the chip level.
Having a basic firewall has long been critical to keeping your computer safe, which is why many antivirus programs are gradually incorporating some firewall functionality. Simple firewalls, like the default Windows Firewall, allow you to restrict access to your system and personal information, silently protecting you from incoming threats. As part of the review, we will look at several basic firewalls that allow you to protect Windows a little better than a standard security tool can do, for example, they monitor attempts by programs to open outgoing connections to the Internet (this action refers to outgoing threats).
Note: The reader should understand that the standard Windows firewall provides fairly limited capabilities for protection against outgoing threats. Third-party apps usually offer a wider range of features.
Proactive firewalls offer more advanced protection, including intrusion detection and prevention systems based on the collection of statistics on program behavior and heuristic analysis, which allows them to protect the computer from a wider range of threats. These firewalls strive to create strong two-way protection, stopping not only incoming threats, but also protecting you from programs transmitting your personal information to the Internet. The disadvantage of such firewalls is that they are more difficult to use and require more money.
It is important to understand that today, having a firewall and antivirus (either separately or as a single solution) is considered the minimum required basic approach to keeping your computer safe.
Note: There is a lot of useful security information available throughout the site, such as an overview of intrusion detection and prevention programs for home use.
Tips and precautions:
- Before installing security products, including antiviruses and firewalls, you should consider creating a full disk image. By creating such an image, you can restore your system back to its previous state in cases where, after installing and configuring protection tools, critical errors appeared in the system, for example, due to incorrect installation of components or you changed critical system settings. In addition, images allow you to cope with complex viruses or simply random conflicts in the system. For example, some system drivers may simply be incompatible with each other, causing your system to suffer. Starting with Windows Vista Ultimate, the system includes a standard backup and recovery tool, but you can also use free programs to create a disk image.
- To verify the complete removal of third-party firewalls and other security tools, it is recommended to use uninstallers, since services, registry entries, and other system objects may remain after removal.
Basic firewalls and firewalls
Preface or a few words about the built-in windows firewall
The built-in Windows Firewall is a more common choice of users, as it allows you to protect your computer from incoming threats and does not bombard you with pop-up messages. Also, the Windows firewall does not require installation (we are talking about versions of Windows where a firewall is included by default) and practically does not conflict with other programs. In addition, many average users cannot properly respond to pop-up notifications due to a lack of basic network knowledge.
So if you need to scan your system for viruses and you do not want (need) the additional capabilities of third-party firewalls, in other words, the level of risk is very low, then Windows Firewall may be exactly the solution you need due to its simplicity and undemanding.
Alternatively, you can download a third-party firewall and replace the standard Windows firewall with the base one for easier control of outgoing connections and for additional features. Most two-way firewalls are limited to simple questions like allow or deny Internet access for unknown programs. And also, many firewalls automatically configure access to a pre-configured list of programs (often this list includes most popular applications) and save your decisions in their database. So, after some time, you will hardly see any notifications.
And as an option, you can also use proactive firewalls by first disabling heuristics and analysis in them. In addition, this option may be even more suitable, since proactive firewalls, due to their complexity, simply contain a larger list of preliminary rule templates and access settings.
This is a well-made firewall for controlling outgoing and incoming operating system connections, which is suitable for users of any level. ZoneAlarm protects the system from intrusions and also controls program access to the Internet. The firewall has an easy to understand interface. You can configure security settings to suit your own needs, including shared (public) files and printers, network settings, and more. You can even turn off the firewall if necessary (by the way, the standard Windows firewall lacks quick access to this feature). All configuration is done using simple controls (sliders and others), so in most cases you will only need a few clicks. To make it easier for users to get used to the program, when they first start, ZoneAlarm offers to scan installed programs and set access permissions/denies for them. Please note that this first scan does not always allow you to set the access correctly.
The first time after installation, you will have to monitor and adjust the actions of ZoneAlarm to make sure that all programs have a sufficient level of Internet access. But, pop-ups are very simple and are presented in an "allow/deny" format with a checkbox to remember the selected action. Even novice users can easily figure it out (the name of the programs will also be indicated in the message).
You can set the program control level that suits you. Low level involves learning mode (the firewall remembers all programs that use the network), disabling protection and a minimum number of pop-up windows. The middle level assumes that any access to a trusted network or the Internet will be done with permission. High level is not provided in the free version of ZoneAlarm. You can set any of the levels at any time. Using the "Smart Defense Advisor" module, Firewall will suggest the most commonly accepted option for non-rule programs by users around the world. You don't have to use this module (although it will be very useful for beginners).
Setting up Internet zones includes a trusted zone, which implies a local network with shared files, printers, etc., and an Internet zone for access from the network. Each zone has a simple control format of 3 options: "no security" (firewall disabled), "medium" (exchange/sharing of resources such as files and printers) and "high" (allows use of the network, but blocks someone on the network accessing your system). Medium level is recommended for home networks with more than one operating system, and for cases where devices (routers, routers) require this. A high level is recommended for single machines with Internet access (for example, there is only one computer at home and there is no internal network), as well as for public places where you are going to access the network (WiFi in restaurants and so on).
Overall, ZoneAlarm Free offers basic two-way protection with stealth mode and anti-phishing protection. However, the firewall lacks heuristic and behavioral modules, as well as the ability to allow/block access between programs.
It is worth noting that from version to version, the firewall becomes a little lighter in terms of functionality. Perhaps this is only a temporary dynamic, but still.
It will be a good choice for those who aim to use the built-in Windows firewall. Despite its name, the program is compatible with Windows XP and higher. In a few words, Windows 10 Firewall Control allows you to more conveniently and simply configure blocking and application access to the Internet in the standard Windows firewall. This firewall also adds a better way to manage outgoing connections. It is based on the Windows Filtering Platform, which also powers the standard firewall. Therefore, unlike most other firewalls, the application does not install any drivers on the system. The user interface is made very simple and clear. It displays only what the program can do, i.e. a block with settings to “allow/deny” access and nothing more.
There are three modes in total - “normal”, “allow all” and “disable all”. The latter mode completely disables access to applications, regardless of firewall settings. The "allow all" mode is self-explanatory, meaning unhindered Internet access for all applications (similar to turning off the firewall). If you do not need to test something, then normal mode is recommended - Internet access for programs will be provided depending on individual settings.
In normal mode, when the program tries to access the Internet for the first time (after installing W10), a pop-up window will appear with information about the application, publisher, etc. You can allow or deny access either one-time or permanently. If you select the first option, the next time you start the program the window will appear again.
In addition to pop-up windows for selecting Windows 10 Firewall Control actions, small windows also appear in the lower right corner of the screen with access information (access blocked/allowed, etc.). These notifications can be turned off in Settings.
That's basically all this firewall can do. The disadvantages include the fact that you will have to configure access for all your applications, from the browser to the antivirus, which can be somewhat annoying in its routine. However, Windows 10 Firewall Control allows for much easier and more convenient control over the built-in Windows firewall than the operating system offers.
It is a lightweight firewall that is based on the standard Windows firewall. It is completely free of pop-ups, so this firewall may be ideal for those who need a "set it up and go do other things" solution. The installer for this program weighs only about 1 MB. Installation is simple, but, unfortunately, does not include the ability to select the installation location. After installation, the firewall runs in the background with an icon in the system tray. All program functions are accessible only from the system tray - there is no “main window” interface in it. In the pop-up menu, the user can select the necessary items, in particular, firewall mode, general network activity, add/exclude applications/processes and call up a dialog with firewall settings.
The firewall settings dialog box is also quite modest. General settings, with the ability to set a password to protect settings. A section that specifies applications that are allowed to connect to the network. There is also a "Detect" function that will try to detect known applications so that the user does not have to add programs manually. In addition, TinyWall can recognize related processes of one application. For example, if you have a program that runs several processes, then by adding the program to the white list, all open related processes will also have access to the Internet.
It should be noted that when adding a program to the exclusion list, the application is not limited to UDP and TCP traffic. Depending on the nature of the program, it may be more prudent to limit it to, for example, only "outgoing" traffic.
The Special Exceptions tab allows the user to set additional parameters. In particular, choose to allow or block access for system services. If you are not very computer savvy, it is recommended to leave the settings as they are. On the maintenance tab, you can import/export settings, check for versions, and also go to the developer page.
Overall, TinyWall is a lightweight firewall that is a good choice for those looking for an unobtrusive and easy to manage firewall.
Firewalls and firewalls with intrusion detection and prevention systems
Preface or a few words about firewalls with intrusion detection and prevention systems
The following firewalls and firewalls provide better network protection and also support various options for intrusion detection and prevention systems. Every firewall comes with default settings so, depending on the user's needs, very few adjustments may be required
The firewalls in this section require more knowledge and time from the user to set up and become familiar with than basic firewalls, but they provide a higher level of protection.
When choosing a suitable firewall, you should not rely on publicly available independent testing and other statements, since during testing the effectiveness is checked at maximum settings, while most users have a simpler level of protection (after all, you want to use the Internet, and not sit in trench with access to one site). Therefore, most firewall developers strive to ensure maximum “friendliness” of functionality, sometimes with a lower level of security settings (disabling monitoring of some indicators).
Please take these circumstances into account.
This is a solid firewall for those users looking for a full-featured security package. This product is mostly intended for experienced and tech-savvy users. Its intrusion detection system is called "Defense+" and matches or even exceeds the capabilities of paid products. Komodo firewall provides quite a lot of control and settings, which will especially appeal to curious and restless users whose task is to ensure the maximum level of security.
Comodo includes protection against buffer overflow attacks and a lightweight sandboxing option that allows you to check unknown applications and program installations to see how their launch will affect the computer's operating system. Using a sandbox limits the negative effects of malware. Komodo contains a long list of known, trusted applications, but if an unknown application tries to gain access through the firewall, Comodo will first restrict the program and ask you what to do with it. In addition, all the functionality to control ports, protocols and configurations will be at your disposal.
During installation, you will have three options to install the firewall - "firewall only", "firewall with an optimal set of proactive protection" and "maximum proactive protection" (i.e. "Defense+", as mentioned earlier). After installation, Comodo automatically selects "Safe Mode", which will result in numerous pop-up notifications for applications that are not included in the list of trusted programs. If you select allow/deny and choose to remember the response, Comodo will create and save a custom rule for the application, which you can always edit from the general list.
If you select Clean PC Mode, Defense+ will automatically mark all applications on your drive as safe. Please note that if there is a virus among the programs, it will also be considered safe, so use this function carefully and only in cases where you are really confident in the safety of the programs. However, these applications will still be monitored, albeit at a minimal level - checking Comodo protected objects (registry and COM interface), monitoring established rules, etc. Any files you add will be automatically added to the review list, flagged as potentially unsafe, and running them will result in pop-up messages as if you were using Safe Mode, until you set rules.
Comodo reduces the frequency of alerts by automatically identifying programs as safe based on Internet access rules. However, you can further reduce the number of Defense+ alerts using one or more methods:
- Immediately imply your answer as "remember answer" for all warnings. In other words, when any application is launched for the first time, the answer will immediately be assumed to be a permanent solution. However, you must use this setting carefully, as from time to time applications need to temporarily grant or deny access
- Add programs to lists of safe or trusted files
- Use clean computer mode. It is recommended to first make sure that the programs on your disk do not contain viruses and Trojans
Overall, Comodo Firewall is a powerful firewall with a lot of flexible settings, which is perfect for providing a high level of protection. However, it is aimed at those users who have some knowledge of Windows device and networking. Beginner users are strongly advised not to use this firewall.
The former commercial firewall is now free without restrictions. This proactive, multi-layered security solution includes behavioral blocking technology that monitors and checks for viruses, spyware, malware, process and application security, the registry, and more along with standard firewall protection. Private Firewall can certainly be called a multifunctional firewall with an intrusion detection and prevention system.
The program's user interface may seem a little confusing and cumbersome. There are a lot of customizable options, so sometimes it can feel a bit lacking in sorting. Of course, each section contains quite a lengthy reference with explanations, but still. The training mode allows you to allow all program actions within 180 seconds, which is ideal for quickly setting up rules for newly installed programs (no need to create dozens of rules for each port, protocol and address). However, be prepared that the first launch of the firewall may lead to blocking of a number of seemingly well-known programs.
You can set different security levels (high, low, and custom) for your internal network and the Internet. In other words, for example, if you have a couple of computers or a printer on your home network, then there is no point in limiting them in the same way. You will also have three profiles at your disposal - Home, Office and Remote. You can set the appropriate settings for each and easily switch as needed, especially useful for laptops. Another useful feature is that you can block outgoing mail in one click, which is convenient when you have launched an email client and don't want the application to send emails randomly or on a schedule.
Overall, Private Firewall is a fairly effective firewall that has fairly good ratings on the Internet. However, the graphical interface and ease of use will be more appreciated by tech-savvy users. A beginner will simply be confused.
The firewall is a good choice for users who want flexible security settings without compromising ease of use. Its interface is carefully organized and retains its functionality (it can be easily navigated by ordinary users). For example, alerts are simplified but just as functional, so you can quickly and easily set up rules or apply actions. In addition, the firewall remembers all responses in pop-up messages without the need to create additional rules, notifies you of all configured rules in training mode, and notifies you of all automatically applied rules, for example, for browsers when changing versions.
The free version lacks many of the additional features of the paid version, such as the ability to disable an active connection. However, there are plenty of opportunities. You can choose 5 levels of protection, ranging from completely blocking connections to allowing all actions, including the average manual learning mode "Rules Wizard". In addition, the Outpost firewall controls various dangerous application activities, including memory injection, driver loading, and access to critical system objects (registry, files). Also, the Outpost database includes quite a lot of pre-configured rule templates, so setting up Internet access for applications will most often consist of a couple of mouse clicks.
The installer will ask you if you want the firewall to train for a week (using auto-learning mode and manual training "Rules Wizard"). In this mode, the firewall will automatically set rules for known safe applications.
Overall, Outpost Firewall Free is a good choice for those looking for a balance of functionality and interface.
The firewall differs from its counterparts in that it comes with additional security modules, namely the registry, pop-up blocker and parental controls - something like a packaged solution. Firewall is less customizable than the previous firewalls listed in the review, but many standard sections are still available. Three levels of protection - off (turns off the firewall), custom (allows you to configure rules for connections) and high (blocks all connections). Each section in the program interface is designed quite cleanly. Alerts generally provide clear and concise information.
The registry protection module provides control and security of the registry for modifications, with the ability to configure specific sections. The Parental Control module, as the name suggests, limits the available list of sites, but you need to manually add each site. The module problem is in logic. You can only allow certain websites, you cannot just block individual sites. The pop-up blocker monitors browser behavior and blocks pop-up ads and more. All three of these additional modules can be disabled individually. AVS Firewall also comes with a monitoring utility so you can check the amount of network traffic passing through for each application.
During the installation of this firewall, the installer automatically installs the AVS Software browser. Unfortunately, there is no option to opt out, but after installation you can remove it separately without any consequences for the firewall.
Overall, AVS Firewall is a pretty good firewall that will appeal to those who need to provide more security than in the case of basic firewalls, and who do not want to delve too deeply into the specifics of the network design.
Note: AVS Firewall is no longer supported by the manufacturer.
Other firewalls and firewalls for Windows
Although it is rare to see older operating systems, such as 98 or Me, they still should not be left unprotected, especially if they are not hidden behind other systems with firewalls. Therefore, if for some reason you use them, then here is a small list of firewalls and firewalls for Windows 95-2000. Please note that these firewalls are no longer supported by the manufacturers and may contain errors or lead to problems that, most likely, no one except you will consider. However, having an opportunity is better than not having one.
- Sygate Personal Firewall (Windows 2000/XP/2003) [no longer supported]
- NetVeda Safety.Net (Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP, requires registration) [no longer supported]
- Filseclab Personal Firewall (Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000/2003/XP 32-bit) [no longer supported]
There is a threat of using the victim computer as a bot machine.
Therefore, to more fully protect your computer, in addition to installing an antivirus, we recommend installing a firewall, firewall or firewall - these are all names for the same software.
Ashampoo Firewall
The first in our review will be a product from German developers – Ashampoo Firewall.
The product is activated by entering a code that is sent to the user’s mailbox after registering on the developer’s website.
Immediately after installation, you will be asked to configure the program according to the available simplified “Easy Mode” or advanced mode “Expert Mode”.
The principle of the firewall is as follows: for each application, an allowing or denying rule must be generated, which is processed by the firewall.
If an application for which a rule is not assigned attempts to establish a connection, the firewall warns the user - offering to create a rule.
This statement is true when the firewall is in learning mode.
When this mode is disabled, applications for which no rules are assigned will be blocked automatically.
Advantages:
Free;
Low consumption of system resources;
Friendly user interface;
Semi-automatic configuration is possible.
Flaws:
Not compatible with some antiviruses;
The firewall is installed without entering any passwords or registering, as is the case with Ashampoo Firewall.
Rules for application access are created manually.
We recommend not to postpone this procedure until later, because... After installation, Ashampoo Firewall may remember some applications and programs as unverified, as a result of which the latter may not work correctly or not work at all.
Advantages:
Free;
Simple and reliable.
Flaws:
Lack of updates;
Lack of Russian-language interface;
Manual setting.
Comodo Firewall
Unlike its predecessors, we have a fairly powerful, multifunctional firewall, which is paired with an antivirus - Comodo Antivirus.
The firewall database is quite impressive and contains information on more than 13 thousand programs that have security risks.
The set of functions is standard - protection from Trojan programs, malicious scripts, support for monitoring incoming/outgoing traffic, as well as network activity of installed programs, DLL libraries, the ability to hide a computer on the network, control over software and driver updates.
Note! Additional features include a detailed report of system events, integration into the Windows Security Center, and the ability to run applications in a specially designated environment for their safe execution - a sandbox.
Despite the wide range of different settings, the firewall has not lost its user-friendly interface; each option has a corresponding description.
Advantages:
Free;
Possibility of batch installation of firewall and antivirus;
Simple Russian-language interface with tips.
Flaws:
Increased operating system loading time, loss of PC performance;
The program is not removed from the system correctly, leaving behind a lot of “garbage”.
Outpost Firewall Pro
Software product from the Russian company Agnitum. To familiarize yourself with the capabilities of the firewall, the developer provides a free 30-day version.
The price of a licensed copy for home use for a year is 899 rubles, a license for 2 years will cost 1399 rubles.
A distinctive feature of the firewall is the ability to detect both known malicious programs and new ones that are not yet in the databases.
This function is possible thanks to a multi-level approach, which involves the use of proactive blocking based on analysis of program behavior and signature methods for detecting network activity.
In addition to the organized self-protection function of the firewall from being completely or partially disabled or modified by malicious code, the program also provides this protection for the operating system and installed programs and applications.
In general, the firewall is quite good; after spending some time on proper configuration, you can later forget about its existence; the program will provide a fairly high degree of protection for your PC.
Advantages:
Multi-level security approach with proactive protection;
The speed of the PC after installation remains at the same level;
Availability of a Russian-language interface with tips.
Flaws:
The need to purchase a license;
Few people think about setting up a Firewall until they encounter problems with the security of their Windows 10 computer, laptop or tablet. You can be smart and download the best free Firewall for Windows 10 before problems arise and set everything up perfectly. In this article, we will tell you about the best firewalls, create a rating, and you can decide for yourself which option suits you best.
What is Firewall
Before we talk about the best firewalls, it would be useful to know what a firewall is. This word comes from the English – Firewall, and means the protective screen of your device. Firewall controls incoming and outgoing traffic, thereby preventing outside interference into your device and preventing the theft of personal data. Very often you can come across another name - Firewall, in this context we are talking about the same thing.Firewall rating for Windows 10
The operating system initially has a built-in Firewall, which provides decent protection for the OS. However, the built-in Firewall does not offer fine-tuning options, so you should choose a third-party solution. But before installing a third-party solution, you will probably need to disable the Windows 10 firewall. This is necessary just in case you want to install a firewall from a third-party developer. Otherwise, it is possible that the utilities will conflict with each other. Among the best firewalls for Windows 10, we would like to highlight the following: All of the firewalls listed are free and have earned the title of the best thanks to the experience of hundreds of users. Let's look at each option in more detail.Windows 10 Firewall Control
Windows 10 Firewall Control is a small utility that allows you to fine-tune the built-in firewall. A convenient interface in Russian and truly comprehensive settings that are suitable even for system administrators - that’s what made Windows 10 Firewall Control the best firewall.Comodo Firewall
Comodo Firewall - exists as an independent product, and is also part of the antivirus. Installs on any version of Windows 10 - 32 and 64 bit, and works completely unnoticed, without loading the system or slowing down the computer. If after setting up the firewall you start having performance problems, then the problem is different. Find out by following the link.
Kaspersky Anti-Virus
Many of you know it as a regular antivirus, even if it is part of . But this is not just an antivirus program, it is also a Firewall. Firewall is included in most modern versions of Kaspersky, from the regular version to the business version. This utility, unfortunately, slows down the system a little, but it reliably protects your device.Most others also include a firewall; you don’t have to limit yourself to the three options we’ve given in this article. But there are situations when it is necessary to disable the Firewall; you will learn more about this in the following video:
- Useful programs for Windows 10
