Windows Firewall

Already proving popular (if only by default) is the Windows Firewall that became available to owners of Windows XP upon installation of the security-tightening SP2 update. Designed to integrate with Windows, and be powerful but simple to use, Windows Firewall operates deep under cover, without bothering you at all. It can help stop viruses and worms reaching your computer, ask for permission to block or unblock certain connection requests from applications and software, and create a security log if required. It’s an automatic first line of defence for those who don’t have any other software installed.

Windows Firewall performed well throughout the tests, and managed to prevent even the computer’s identification information from leaking out. Don’t go looking for exciting interfaces or endless user options, however, as the Windows Firewall is not customisable to any degree. In spite of this it will attempt to look after you and provide a workable measure of protection for those who don’t like the setting up and interaction involved in other firewalls, and would otherwise be going unprotected. However, this is a risky strategy and we’d thoroughly recommend installing one of the more sophisticated firewalls instead.