Norton hides its configuration settings several screens deep. For example, the overall firewall security level Low, Medium, or High --visible from the top page of the old interface--is now buried, along with advanced features, requiring several clicks of the mouse to uncover. Unfortunately, the more advanced your needs, the more troublesome NPF becomes.
Want to set it to block ActiveX Controls? That's a six-click process through three dialogs. And unlike some firewalls, Norton doesn't let you disable cookies selectively.
In other words, you can't specify which sites' cookies you'll accept; it's an all or nothing deal here. Nonetheless, NPF 's several new features make it an even more effective guardian for the masses. The most important addition: an enhanced intrusion-detection system that not only blocks port scans from malicious users, but also looks at each in- or outbound data packet.
If NPF spots suspicious data transfers or transfer methods, it compares these to a "signature" database that it updates when you do a LiveUpdate Symantec's update feature of Firewall, and it automatically drops the packets coming from the offending computer.
This method catches and halts worms such as Nimda and Code Red. Also new is the Block Traffic button, which stops all Net activity with one click, much like ZoneAlarm's similar feature. During installation the program automatically scans your drive for Internet-able programs, such as browsers, instant messengers, and emailers, and it automatically configures itself to allow those applications through the firewall. You can schedule these scans manually, as well.
What's more, the familiar Norton Alert Tracker pop-up still warns you if someone is trying to break into your PC. It immediately reports both unauthorised attempts by applications to access the Internet and illicit port scans. In case of an unavoidable attack, NIS 's new Alert Assistant provides more information about any suspicious activity, including whether the program that's attempting to connect contains a digital signature, which means that it's probably trustworthy.
A personal firewall may be its backbone, but NIS also includes the full version of Norton AntiVirus , as well as tools that block pop-ups, pop-unders, banner ads, unwanted cookies, JavaScripts, ActiveX Controls and even outgoing personal information, such as your credit card number. Supposedly, the new anti-spam tool, Norton Spam Alert, stops a significant amount of spam, but we couldn't test it thoroughly during the review period, so we must take Symantec's word for it.
Far be it from NIS to rest on its laurels. Year after year, this utility suite continues to beef up its security intelligence. Last year, NIS debuted a feature that kept rogue programs from masquerading as trusted applications. The version not only auto-blocks port scanners, which it has always done, but it also scans each packet of data that leaves or enters your PC.
If these scans spot suspicious data exchanges, which it finds by comparing them to a frequently updated database, NIS automatically severs the link to the offending computer. In our ShieldsUp and Port Scanner tests, NIS successfully blocked every attempt to gain entry to our test PC, and it cloaked every port on our test PCs with such stealth that hackers wouldn't even know that those systems existed.
The software is reasonably priced. For the money, you can't beat NIS With its improved interface, added features, and -- most importantly -- its intrusion detection, NIS is excellent value. LifeLock identity theft protection is not available in all countries. All rights reserved. Firefox is a trademark of Mozilla Foundation.
App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Alexa and all related logos are trademarks of Amazon. Microsoft and the Window logo are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U. The Android robot is reproduced or modified from work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners. Do firewalls protect against viruses? What do firewalls protect against?
What is an Intrusion Prevention System? Problem A cybercriminal may hack into your computer can take your valuable information. Solution The Norton Smart Firewall and IPS work together to block unauthorized access and carefully inspect all traffic that is permitted in.
Problem Malicious apps or processes already installed on your computer can attempt to steal your private and sensitive data and put it in the wrong hands. Solution The Norton Intrusion Prevention System IPS checks for potential leaks of private and personal data by analyzing the content and the reputation of remote hosts used in the communication.
We immediately add new-found malware code to our global threat intelligence database. Reputation Database PC Every file you download gets a reputation review. Files from reputable developers, with a recognizable signature, pass through quickly. Never-seen-before files raise a flag, and Norton quarantines the potential threat.
Norton notices suspicious behavior and stops the action on your device. Smart Firewall Our Smart Firewall helps protect your personal information from unauthorized access to your personal files and financial information.
Working together, the Smart Firewall and IPS: Block unauthorized users from accessing your computers through the internet. Create a shield that either allows or blocks attempts to access the information on your computer.
Warn you of connection attempts from other computers. Warn you of connection attempts by the applications on your computer that connect to other computers. Block your data passwords, keystrokes, files, tax returns etc. Screens are simulated and subject to change. Smart Firewall is included in Norton Explore Norton Plans. Frequently Asked Questions. How does a firewall work? As a key component in security software, firewalls protect your devices specifically by doing the following: Preventing access by unauthorized users through the Internet Monitoring communication between your computer and other computers on the Internet Providing a filter that allows or blocks attempts to access the information on your computer, based on pre-set rules Warning you if another computer attempts to connect to yours Warning you if the applications on your computer attempt to connect to other computers Firewalls are one component of protection for your computer.
Security software includes several more key technological components that work together to protect your devices in different ways, such as antivirus technology that works to help protect your information at the file level.
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