1 said:
Are all the security updates necessary if you're using a reasonable firewall
such as zonealarm?
Yes, certainly. No firewall (or any software, in point of fact) is
100% reliable. Sometimes things go wrong. Therefore, a layered defense
is the wisest course of action; if one safeguard fails, even
temporarily, you've another precaution in reserve.
There are several essential components to computer security: a
knowledgeable and pro-active user, a properly configured firewall,
reliable and up-to-date antivirus software, and the prompt repair (via
patches, hotfixes, or service packs) of any known vulnerabilities.
The weakest link in this "equation" is, sadly, the computer user.
No software manufacturer can -- nor should they be expected to --
protect the computer user from him/herself. All too many people have
bought into the various PC/software manufacturers marketing claims of
easy computing. They believe that their computer should be no harder to
use than a toaster oven; they have neither the inclination or desire to
learn how to safely use their computer. All too few people keep their
antivirus software current, install patches in a timely manner, or stop
to really think about that cutesy link they're about to click.
Firewalls and anti-virus applications, which should always be used
and should always be running, are important components of "safe hex,"
but they cannot, and should not be expected to, protect the computer
user from him/herself. Ultimately, it is incumbent upon each and every
computer user to learn how to secure his/her own computer.
--
Bruce Chambers
Help us help you:
They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. -Benjamin Franklin
