Looking for info/opinions on firewalls

[Sophy]

Vista Home Premium -- Avast -- SpySweeper

I'd welcome information about firewalls because right now I'm using Windows Firewall and I just don't feel confident or safe with it.

I had the paid version of AVG 7.5 -- worked great -- updated to their 8.0 and nothing but problems.

I tried Comodo Pro (free) and that is way to complicated for my knowledge and experience.

I tried Webroot Desktop Firewall (free) and thought it looked like I was going to like it and be able to deal with it. After installing it my computer has been down for the past 6 or 7 days -- until tonight. I thought for sure it had bit the dust. I don't know what went wrong but now I'm afraid of it.

I was looking tonight at PC Tools Firewall Plus. Any opinions out there on it? It's got to be something simple that doesn't require so much interaction from me -- like Comodo. That was an awful experience and I ended up with a virus.

I'd appreciate input on the subject.

Thanks,

Nikilet

[joe43wv]

I've used a firewall from Zone Alarm for a couple of years now, I haven't downloaded the latest ver. but I know the previous ver. work out pretty nicely and it's pretty secure, the best part is just the basic firewall is free, now I'm not sure what features you'll have to check into that but if all you need is a firewall try there and see. The most you'll be out is your time.

[Sophy]

Actually, I'm a little leery about Zone Alarm. I did an extensive search on information about firewalls and I read through so much I can't remember specifics about Zone Alarm right now, but there were many comments that it used to be a good firewall but many no longer recommend it.

Sygate was recommended but I think this is now owned by Norton isn't it? I used to have Norton and it slowed my system down so badly and then I had a terrible time getting rid of it so I'm a little gun shy of anything to do with Norton.

Some have recommended Online Armor, but one person said the version offered for Vista right now is beta and to wait a month or so before they come out with the firm version and I wouldn't be sorry. Do you have any opinions to share on this Online Armor?

[ReDucTor]

You could setup a box as a hardware firewall with smoothwall or something running on it. That way you get full control with iptables/ipchains

[Sophy]

I'm sorry but I'm really green and don't have a clue what you are talking about. However, my problem has been solved. My system became so unstable that I reinstalled my OS this past Sunday. Then I purchased BitDefender Internet Security 2008. I really like it so I hope you aren't going to tell me it's no good.

Thanks!

Sophy

[ReDucTor]

Anythings better then nothing..