Windows XP Home Firewall and Linksys WMA11B

[Bob]

Windows XP Home Firewall and Linksys WMA11B

I implemented the XP firewall on the network card in my
computer. The network card is hard-wired (ethernet
connection) to a Linksys BEFW11S4 4-port wireless
router. The router connects to my cable modem and that
goes out to the Internet. I have done all of this to
establish solid firewall protection (software and
hardware).

I have also implemented the Linksys WMA11B wireless media
adapter to play MP3 music files through my home theater
system (works really well).

Unfortunately, I must disable the XP software firewall
each time I want to use the media adapter (the media
adapter host connection can not be made through the
software firewall).

Does anyone have a solution (reconfigure router/cable
modem/network card connections, different firewall
software, etc.) that will permit the media adapter and
firewall software to co-exist?

 

[Mikel Myagi]

Disable the Internet Connection Firewall. Your router is a
hardware firewall and no other is really necessary if you
do not have a lot of ports opened in the router
configuration. If you feel you must run an additional
software firewall, I suggest Zone Alarm. It is free and
rated the best of its kind by every major publication.

 

[Bob]

I have completed what you suggested and it works just
great. Thanks for your support. I documented the
solution and sent it to Linksys technical support for
inclusion in their FAQs.