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FMFCU Security Center | Understanding Firewalls

If you computer is always on or you surf for long periods of time, you should have a firewall set up. Firewalls help stop hackers from getting into your computer and stealing personal information. They also can put your computer in stealth mode and automatically make your computer invisible to anyone on the Internet. By definition, a firewall is simply a program or hardware device that filters the information coming through the Internet connection into your private network or computer system. If an incoming packet of information is flagged by the filters, it is not allowed through (How Stuff Works.com).

Windows

Windows XP offers a built in firewall which should be utilized unless your running third-party software. If you have Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), it is turned on by default. If you don't have SP2, you should consider upgrading using Windows Update, or go into the Security Panel and turn it on.

Mac OS X

Mac OS X also includes firewall software. Open System Preferences and click Sharing. Select the service you want to share and then firewall protection is automatically turned on for that service. Use the Services Pane to manage it.

Third-party firewall software solutions include*:

ZoneAlarm
ETrust Personal Firewall
Norton Personal Firewall
Mac OS X also has a software program called, DoorStop X Firewall. This enhances the firewall built into Mac OS X and is available as a standalone product.

*Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union does not endorse these products. This is for informational purposes only.