Free Firewalls Vs Paid: What You Need To Know
Whenever we log on to the Internet without a firewall, we are at risk of losing our personal information to hackers or financial fraudsters. If you are contemplating whether to use a free or paid firewall, here are some factors to consider first.
Free Firewall Pros And Cons
Installing free firewall software is ideal for a home network as it provides you everything you need to stay safe while browsing online. There are now many Internet service providers that offer free firewall versions, however these are not yet available for commercial use.
When you opt for free solutions, you should know that you are only getting basic protection. A basic firewall will not stop intruders from attacking your computer, especially if you use Internet Explorer as your browser. Contrast this with paid firewalls that detect and trace intrusions, and only allow trusted traffic to enter or exit your system.
If you have fiber optic broadband connection, you can help protect your computer by using a straightforward and user-friendly firewall network that will block unwanted intrusions. Depending on your needs, you should consider whether to use a basic or paid network that will adequately protect you from identity fraud.
Paid Firewall Pros And Cons
The paid firewall software offers advanced options that can easily be used across multiple PCs. Providers of paid firewalls usually offer more support to customers, however, some options are packed with unnecessary features that are often difficult to remove from computers.
If you are using your PC for business purposes, you may opt for a paid firewall that gives you more options than the free alternatives. Paid networks can be customised and regularly updated as new viruses emerge. You can expect 24/7 technical support from the providers, offering you peace of mind whenever you are browsing the Web. Most PCs already come with built-in firewall, but having added protection is always a good idea. Some firewalls are a little more difficult to install as they require extra drivers, but if you opt for a paid version, the provider’s customer support team will talk you through the installation process.
Although the biggest drawback to choosing a free product is the lack of technical support, you can still find a company that provides fast Internet connection as well as free and basic security. While you will get some sort of phone support from such companies, having free antivirus means you will have to fend for yourself. On the other hand, free firewalls do give users more flexibility as many paid ones offer feature-limited trial versions. If your budget is tight, you may consider trying one of these trial versions. Although their features are pretty limited, they will still provide some kind of protection from online intruders.