Windows Feedback Panel

[BoomerD]

Like many others here, I signed up for the Microsoft Feedback Program, with the hook of a free copy of Vista Ultimate.
I recently got an email from Microsoft saying my computer isn't sending data, and "Please make sure it is set to allow wfpuserreg.exe and wfpservice.exe access to the internet on outgoing TCP ports 80 (HTTP) and 443 (HTTPS)"

I'm only using the Windows XP firewall right now, so this was relatively easy, (I think) but now, Spybot S&D is complaining about those open ports.

Do I leave them open? Are they a major security risk?

I used to run Zone Alarm, and it locked up all ports, (or at least made them invisible) which I liked, and never had any problems with. (damn them for charging for it!)

Any opinions on this?

Thanks.

 

[Oakenfold]

Originally posted by: BoomerD
Like many others here, I signed up for the Microsoft Feedback Program, with the hook of a free copy of Vista Ultimate.
I recently got an email from Microsoft saying my computer isn't sending data, and "Please make sure it is set to allow wfpuserreg.exe and wfpservice.exe access to the internet on outgoing TCP ports 80 (HTTP) and 443 (HTTPS)"

I'm only using the Windows XP firewall right now, so this was relatively easy, (I think) but now, Spybot S&D is complaining about those open ports.

Do I leave them open? Are they a major security risk?

I used to run Zone Alarm, and it locked up all ports, (or at least made them invisible) which I liked, and never had any problems with. (damn them for charging for it!)

Any opinions on this?

Thanks.

First off, Zone Alarm is still free. Click on the download on the right
Opening ports is a necessary evil if you want to communicate with the interweb.
Just don't open ports you don't need too. Run a firewall like ZA or the Windows Firewall, use A/V, keep your software/OS up to date and stick yourself behind a router and you are good to go.

If you want more info on the risk of opening ports you can read about what ports are here @ wiki