If your 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 10, 8, and 7 offer a built in firewall which should be utilized unless your running third-party software. Make sure you always perform Windows Updates, no matter what Windows version you have, to get the latest patches including firewall modifications.
MAC OS X
Mac OS X also includes firewall software. More information can be found here in their support section.
*Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union does not endorse these products. This is for informational purposes only.