Protecting My Computer (Firewall / Router/ Anti-Virus /Spyware)

[jrphoenix]

Hey forum members,

You can see the specs on my system below. Some quick questions for you guys but, some background first. I have an intergrated firewall in my motherboard (nf3-250) that I have all but given up on (almost impossible to configure, for me). I also use Norton internet security (firewall / antivirus). I use Spybot Search & Destroy & Lavasofts free antispyware killers. I have had no problems until now but, want to make sure I'm protected in the future. I have a D-Link router: dlink that is not hooked up (just obtained it).

1. If you have a router or firewall is there any need for a software firewall?

2. Would you ditch the nf3-250 firewall for the d-link router?

3. Does anyone have the Nvidia firewall and know how to setup a port for incoming / outgoing (Shareaza application p2p). Same for d-link (how do you port forward???)

4. Since I have heard Norton is a resource hog (I do have 2 gigs of ram) would you ditch it for something else? What's the best and / or cheapest?

5. Does Norton or any other Antivirus / firewall signicantly affect gaming?

6. When you game do you disable AV / firewall software and is that safe?

Thanks!

 

[NiKeFiDO]

1) I use both - do you need to? i would say yes as none are fully comprehensive
2) idk
3) http://www.portforward.com <--- all you'll ever need.
4) you said it yourself, you have 2gb ram. dont worry about it.
5) Norton and windos firewall has not affected my gaming to my knowledge
6) i dont and never will disable while gaming, most make exceptions to allow games to work and ask the first time you start the game

 

[jrphoenix]

Thanks for the info Nike.... I had heard other forum posters talking about disabling AV / software firewall for performance, something I had never done. I didn't want to take a risk to see if it really impacted fps.

 

[jrphoenix]

bump.... anyone else out there notice performance hits while gaming with Norton Internet Security? Any recommendations beyond Norton or are they the best?

 

[knothead34]

i use zone alarm security suite and dont believe it has affected my gaming. i dont ever disable it hackers are to good these days. ive seen some setup nvida firewall successfully and some just didnt want to fool with it so right now its a mixed bag. i have it on the motherboard i have and if knew how to set it up i sure would. but i dont know how good it is either. i wouldnt recommend using microsofts firewall ive read and do believe its not very good i bet an average hacker could get through that easily. but is it better then nothing? ok i guess.

 

[imported_michaelpatrick33]

I have played UT 2004 with Zonealarm Pro/Netgear Router/Norton Antivirus and had super fast ping times and no lag myself on my cable connection (3mbps)

 

[eri7154798]

Originally posted by: jrphoenix
bump.... anyone else out there notice performance hits while gaming with Norton Internet Security? Any recommendations beyond Norton or are they the best?

you should only be worried abotu performance if you have less ram...given you have 2 gigs..i don't think norton will suck enough out, although it does suck alot of resources.