[Rictor]

Here's the deal, I need a software firewall with the following traits:

1)Easy to set up
2)With minimal setup, allows all normal computer/Internet functions to operate.

Its not for me if you're wondering. I have a router.

Basically, all I need is to have a firewall thats not going to block Internet scripting, prevent certain webpages from working, thats not going to block emails and so forth. So, just your everyday email and Internet functions, thats what it can't interfere with.

I'm thinking ZoneAlarm, but it someone has anything better, or if you've had bad experiences with ZoneAlarm, what do you recommend?

[kv1at3485]

I use Sygate Personal, and I have a router as well.  Although I have yet to figure out how to host an online WarCraft 3 game, I did get FS2 to go on PXO just fine.

For everyday operations, I have experienced few difficulties.

[an0n]

Just get ZoneAlarm.

[aldo_14]

I've never had any complaints with zonealarm.

[Admiral LSD]

I just use the firewall in my router, I can't stand software firewalls.

[an0n]

I dislike my firewall'd router.

It stops me using BitTorrent and KaZaA.

[Lonestar]

Zone Alarm Pro is definitely worth the pick up. I run both software and hardware firewalls. Can never be too safe.

[Fury]

ZoneAlarm is bad, use Kerio. You can easily set it up.
And Windows XP's own firewall would do the job for you. It just blocks incoming connections.

[Admiral LSD]

You can be too paranoid though

[Lonestar]

Originally posted by Admiral LSD
You can be too paranoid though

Ya im a paranoid freak with my computer. I've been hacked before on a personal level. Lets just say its not very nice when it happens, since that day i've run firewalls!

[Genryu]

Kerio for me. Doesn't cause as much headaches than ZoneAlarm.

[ShadowPuppet]

Admiral LSD ... I don't honestly think you can be too paranoid these days

I wasn't convinced about the need to have a firewall over and above the XP one...until I tried one. Then I saw how much junk was bombarding the poor old thing! Now, I am seriousely considering a minefield and machine gun towers

[Fury]

There is just no better than a router with hardware firewall. (A good one, well customizable one.) Although that "hardware" part is arguable. In fact it is software in hardware.