| The popularity of broadband access increases the | | | | computers easily using routine port scans. |
| need for sophisticated firewall software. Read our | | | | Once they gain access to the computer, hackers |
| short report to see how firewall software can | | | | can do different things. They can install an |
| protect your computer. | | | | application in the computer, hijack the data files, |
| Broadband access is also known as high-speed | | | | steal confidential banking and identity data, or use |
| internet access. The popularity of broadband | | | | the computer to hack another computer. |
| access is increasing these days. It is because | | | | Although many computer users have antivirus and |
| broadband access is much faster than a dial-up | | | | antispyware software installed, these programs |
| connection. There is no need of dialing. Consumers | | | | cannot block hacker attacks. |
| can use the phone line while they are connected | | | | A personal firewall is what broadband users need |
| to the internet. The downside is broadband access | | | | to protect their PCs from hackers. It does the |
| is more susceptible to hacker attacks. Therefore, | | | | job in different ways. A firewall program masks |
| a good firewall program is a must for broadband | | | | the IP address, making the computer invisible on |
| users. | | | | the internet. PC users can use program controls |
| Broadband users are more susceptible to hacker | | | | to allow or deny internet access to programs. |
| attacks because their internet connection is | | | | Sophisticated firewall software also have ID lock |
| always on. This is true even when they do not | | | | feature, which prevents personal information from |
| open the e-mail program and web browser. | | | | leaving the computer without permission. Personal |
| Broadband connection usually has a static IP | | | | firewall can also block pop-up ads and cookies and |
| address with unprotected or ?open? ports. | | | | provide other features for overall protection. |
| Hackers or crackers can locate these unprotected | | | | |