Member Avatar for tayspen

What is the best most userfriendly firewall (free) that can bec onfigured for a network. right now i am using zonealarm...i dont like it

  • 3 Contributors
  • 4 Replies
  • 120 Views
  • 12 Hours Discussion Span
  • Latest Post Latest Post by tayspen

Dani AI

Generated

Both approaches suggested earlier by and are valid paths. Choose based on whether the priority is "protect every PC individually" (host-level) or "protect the whole LAN at once" (gateway-level). Below are short, practical steps and low-effort options for each route so a non‑expert can get real protection quickly.

For a simple, low-maintenance setup: lock down the network edge first. Update the router firmware, change the admin password, turn off remote/web administration, and use the strongest Wi‑Fi encryption your hardware supports (WPA2 or WPA3). Disable WPS and only forward ports you absolutely need. After changes, scan your public IP from outside with an external tester like GRC ShieldsUP to verify ports are closed (GRC ShieldsUP).

If you want per‑PC controls (user‑friendly, free): the built‑in Windows firewall is lean and effective and can be made easy with small front-ends that show per‑app network activity. Microsoft documents how Windows Firewall works and how to configure it: Windows Firewall documentation. For an easier GUI and traffic history, consider tools that layer on top of Windows Firewall such as GlassWire (GlassWire).

If a dedicated box makes sense later, free appliance software like pfSense gives strong network controls, logging and NAT rules if you decide to replace consumer firmware (pfSense).

Quick checks and cautions: on a Windows PC run netstat -ano to see listening ports and stop unneeded services; do not run multiple personal firewalls that conflict; keep OS and router firmware updated; and avoid exposing file shares to the Internet.

Recommended Answers

All 4 Replies

Member Avatar for techniner

well not to user friendly but I would setup a small linux box and let it act as firewall.. they have anbunch of pre written firewall scripts that you could use.

Member Avatar for hp/compaqdave

well not to user friendly but I would setup a small linux box and let it act as firewall.. they have anbunch of pre written firewall scripts that you could use.

how about a hardware firewall that is built into a network device,say like a router.always better than a software firewall :mrgreen:

Member Avatar for techniner

Well a linux machine running iptables is basically a hardware based firewall.

But if your looking for an appliance for this then I guess The LinkSys VPN router has a decent interface I don't rember the Model Number but its Wireless G router with VPN access..

Just hit linksys its right on there page there.

Member Avatar for tayspen

how about a hardware firewall that is built into a network device,say like a router.always better than a software firewall :mrgreen:

good point iam behing a a router cuz i get wirless internet. is that good enuf.

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.