Firewalls
What is a firewall, and why do I need it?
A firewall is your first step toward protecting your computer from malicious attacks. It is a software program or piece of hardware that helps to screen out and block hackers, viruses, and worms that try to invade your computer over the Internet. It decides what traffic is and isn't allowed to enter your computer on a network. Common online activities, such as banking and shopping, can leave you vulnerable to attack--making a first line of defense essential.
Is your firewall enabled?
A firewall generally comes standard with your device’s operating system (OS), but you may want to double-check that it is enabled. Identify your computer’s OS below, and follow the link to ensure your firewall is turned on.