LAN security

[Fred Hoffman]

My question concerns the software I ought to install in a
new laptop I plan to include in a LAN connected to the
internet through a cable modem.

The scheme I am following is what Windows XP Help
calls "Ethernet network with external DSL or cable
modem". In my setup the cable modem will attach directly
to a host computer through an ethernet connection. The
network hub, a D-Link DI 624 wireless router will connect
to the host computer via a second ethernet port and to the
laptop wireleessly. The host computer is a Dell Dimension
4400 desktop and the one other computer is a Dell 600m
Laptop. Both run Windows XP Home. I have Norton Internet
Security installed on the desktop.

My question is whether it is desirable/necessary to
install a software firewall on the laptop or whether an
antivirus program will be sufficient.

 

[Roger Abell]

There is a firewall that blocks inbound traffic that comes
with XP. As it is a wireless capable laptop you should
approach things from the point of view that the laptop will
be connecting in unknown places using unknown networks.
While within your private lan you may not want to have
the firewall on, but when outside of your network you likely
would.