Any network or computer that’s connected to the Internet or any other external network is potentially at risk for an attack or threats. One method of protection is by installing an antivirus solution as this helps detect known threats. You can add another layer of protection by using Firewall as a barrier.
A Firewall can protect your computer from being attacked over the internet by hackers, viruses and worms. It can be installed as software or a hardware device. Firewall protection should be part of your organization’s plan for computer security.
HOW TO CONFIGURE YOUR FIREWALL
For Windows
1. Click the Start menu and type “windows firewall” in the search box. Click the "Windows Firewall" option that pops up in the search results. You could also hit the Run option and type in firewall.cpl
2. Under "Home or Work Network Location Settings", click "Turn Off Windows Firewall". If you want to turn it back on, just click the "Turn on Windows Firewall" button above it.
3. Unless you have another firewall as part of your anti-virus software, leave the Windows Firewall on for public networks. You will need it as extra protection when you're on an unsecured Wi-Fi network.
For Mac
1. Open up ‘System Preferences’, which is the icon in your dock with the gears (usually near the far right).
2. Click on "Security", which is in the top line of icons.
3. Go to the Firewall tab.
4. Click the small padlock icon in the bottom left-hand corner. Enter your password when prompted.
Hit the Stop button to turn the firewall off. If you want to turn it back on later, you can come right back to the same place and hit the Start button.
5. Make sure you come back and turn the firewall on whenever you are surfing over Public or unsecured Wi-Fi. So whenever you go to a coffee shop, the airport, the library, or anywhere else and connect to the Public Wi-FI, make sure the firewall is switched on. Only turn it off when you're at home, using your password-protected Wi-Fi network.
