Daily Tip:
How do I test my firewall?



If your WinXP computer has an Internet connection, be it a dial-up or an always-on connection, you should install a firewall. WinXP includes its own firewall called ICF (Internet Connection Firewall). Once you enable ICF, it will protect your computer and home network from any unsolicited traffic from the Internet. You can test your firewall configuration to determine its integrity and identify any holes that may exist. These holes, or open doors to your network, are what attackers look for when they get into your PC.

Many Web sites offer free tools that you can use to scan your system and identify any weaknesses in security. For example, the Symantec Web site (www.symantec.com) offers the Symantec Security Check. You can also visit Sygate Online Services (scan.sygate.com). It offers a number of different free scans to test your firewall. Another site offering a free scan is the HackerWatch.org site (www.hackerwatch.org/probe). A quick search with your favorite search engine will turn up numerous other sites providing free firewall tests.