{"id":42792,"date":"2017-12-20T23:01:37","date_gmt":"2017-12-20T15:01:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hongkiat.com\/blog\/?p=42792"},"modified":"2021-08-18T16:09:36","modified_gmt":"2021-08-18T08:09:36","slug":"top-3-firewalls-for-windows","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hongkiat.com\/blog\/top-3-firewalls-for-windows\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 3 Firewalls for Windows – Review"},"content":{"rendered":"

A firewall is the first line of defense<\/strong> against malware and phishing attacks<\/a> that can immensely damage your PC. Windows has a built-in firewall that does a reliable job of protecting your system against most of the online threats. However, it still lacks some of the advanced protection features and customization options<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

If Windows built-in firewall isn\u2019t enough for you, then you can try some third-party firewalls that offer more control and protection. Below Is have reviewed 3 of the best Windows firewalls for you to choose<\/strong> the best firewall for your PC.<\/p>\n

Read Also:<\/strong> 10 Must-have Chrome Security Extensions<\/a><\/p>\n

Is a firewall necessary?<\/h2>\n

Firstly, it is necessary to understand the importance of a firewall<\/strong>. When you connect to the internet, the data is accessible on both sides. Like if you can access the internet, the internet can also access your PC. If not protected, a hacker could easily send malicious code to your PC<\/strong> or take advantage of a security hole to steal data and damage the system.<\/p>\n

A firewall basically works as a filtering system to scan the data and ensure no infected data goes by<\/strong>. I should also mention that it\u2019s easier to protect yourself against downloading infected files. However, you can\u2019t do much about an unsafe internet connection. Therefore, a firewall is necessary even if you think you can follow proper safety guidelines<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Note: <\/strong>Before using any of these third-party firewalls, make sure you turn off Windows built-in firewall<\/a>. Similar to antivirus programs, firewalls will also conflict with each other if used simultaneously.<\/p>\n

1. ZoneAlarm Free Firewall<\/a><\/h2>\n

ZoneAlarm is one of the most popular firewall programs that offers reliable protection with a highly customizable interface<\/strong>. It scans both inbound and outbound connections and ensures there is malicious activity.<\/p>\n

Additionally, it keeps a strict eye on applications and processes to ensure no application goes rogue <\/strong>and is always stopped in its tracks.<\/p>\n

\"zone<\/figure>\n

I also really liked it\u2019s added Identity and data protection feature<\/strong> that alerts you whenever an untrusted website asks for your personal information or any other personal data. There\u2019s also a handy game mode that suppresses alerts while you are gaming<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"identity<\/figure>\n

Interface and usability<\/h3>\n

ZoneAlarm Firewall interface is very intuitive<\/strong> and it took me less than a minute to take full control over its features and customization options. All of the functions are perfectly customized for average use by default<\/strong> and big buttons in front make it easy to explore the program.<\/p>\n

I did see an ad to check out ZoneAlarm paid antivirus solution, but it didn\u2019t bother me once I clicked the Close<\/strong> button. Additionally, the Identity and Data<\/strong> protection feature needs to be turned on and configured manually<\/strong>, which can be a both good and a bad thing.<\/p>\n

As for customization, it makes it very easy to select the level of protection you require, you can either go medium protection<\/strong> with fewer alerts or high protection<\/strong> that can even block all types of inbound connections.<\/p>\n

On top of that, you can also view all the logs and secured applications<\/strong>, and individually customize each application and connection setting.<\/p>\n

\"select<\/figure>\n

Its worth noting that ZoneAlarm Antivirus is directly baked into ZoneAlarm Firewall and you will find many grayed out options that are actually added for the antivirus<\/strong> and can only be used if you download the antivirus program as well. Even if you want to use the firewall only, you will still have to deal with the antivirus settings.<\/p>\n

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Features<\/h3>\n

Some of the notable features of ZoneAlarm Free Firewall are below:<\/p>\n