[Dyre Straits]

When I first install XP Home, I can configure the built-in firewall via the Network settings.

However, it seems that, after installing SP1 and the subsequent updates, that feature becomes unavailable.

To be sure I have firewall protection (I'm behind a router) I've also installed McAfee's Firewall along with my VirusScan.

Can anyone verify that XP Home has the firewall protection removed after the updates? If not, where is it now?


Thx

[krazy1]

I have Professional and I can say mine is still there after all the updates. Not sure on home version though. Sorry. I do have one question. If you are behind a Router which I am guessing uses NAT for firewall, why run a software firewall also. If they get through your router firewall the software isn't gonna stop them. It is a waste of resources on your PC to be running the software firewall....but that is just my opinion.

[Dyre Straits]

Originally posted by krazy1
I have Professional and I can say mine is still there after all the updates. Not sure on home version though. Sorry. I do have one question. If you are behind a Router which I am guessing uses NAT for firewall, why run a software firewall also. If they get through your router firewall the software isn't gonna stop them. It is a waste of resources on your PC to be running the software firewall....but that is just my opinion.

To answer the question about running a software firewall in addition to the router: From all I've read about it, a router won't stop outgoing communication if someone is able to get past it. The software firewall has the ability to stop outgoing traffic in addition to adding to protection.

Until this stupid MSBlaster thing, I hadn't worried too much about this type of thing -- as I WAS/AM behind a hardware router/firewall. Just call me 'gun shy' right now.

[krazy1]

Understandable.....Now it makes sense....... I was just curious why you were doing it. Personally DON'T use the XP one since it is pretty useless....... Keep using what you currently are using.. you will be better off...

[Redstone]

Can anyone verify that XP Home has the firewall protection removed after the updates? If not, where is it now?

I have SP1 loaded and have installed all the critical updates. The firewall is still there. Could not tell where it is now.

[Judas]

My router stops incoming trafic as well outgoing if something odd is up..... It haults the connection that is suspisous.... if a computer on my network is causeing it (virus).... it kills it's connection...but if a hacker hacks.. and somehow request information without me agreeing.... my net goes down.... i have to completely reset the router.... (i've checked the logs right before such things have happened)....