Gaming + Broadband + ZoneAlarm/AntiVirus

[Longfellow]

Hi.
Computer games requiring 3 or 4 CD's
(EA Command and Conquer, Sims 2) are demanding
on memory and system resources.
EA advise us to shut down the Firewall and Anti-virus
to remove their slow down effects on the gaming program.
I have Broadband and Zone Alarm with integral Antivirus.
I can click ZA and accept ' Shut down Zone Alarm with Anti-virus'.
But, is the computer then quite safe?
Is Broadband still shut down?
Or do I have to disconnect my Broadband cable as well?
I'm sure that with a none integral Anti Virus (Norton), I could
'Stop all Internet activity' with the ZA firewall, then
shut down the Anti Virus.
Is this a fatal flaw with the ZA + Antivirus program?

 

[Cymbal Man Freq.]

Turn off the broadband modem physically with the power switch, then boot-up the
computer, then turn off your AV and Firewall (by the clock)...now play your game
OFFLINE.

 

[Longfellow]

Many thanks for a prompt reply Cymbal Man Freq.
I figured that I would have to disconnect my
Broadband for off-line gaming.
Its a difficult process, I either have to fish out the
plug from the back of the tower, or grovel on the floor
to get to the cat 5 cable switchbox.
(Its not for nothing that I selected Longfellow as
my news-group name)
So .. I wondered if anyone can advise how I can
arrange a cat 5 cable to cable connector, that
could sit on the desk and simplify things.

 

[Longfellow]

Well, I tried to find a cheap solution to disconnect
my broadband without grovelling under my desk.
ntl wanted £50 to provide an additional connection box
with an extra length of cat 5 cable with plugs.
One local shop advised a router, priced at £49
with cables.
Another local shop came up with a 1 metre of cable
with plugs, at £2, and a small 1 by 2" straight through
connector block also at £2.
And this works perfectly. Well done the local lads.