Windows XP Pro firewall and home networking

[Bill Schaffer]

When setting up my home network with a Linksys cable
variety router, I couldn't communicate between
computers. I could ping the router successfully, but not
computer to computer. I called Linksys and they told me
to disable the firewall in the network properties
settings.

Anyone have a workaround so I can still enjoy firewall
protection built into XP?

Thanks. Bill Schaffer

 

[Sooner Al]

Well the ICF is not designed for your usage. Why do you want to run the ICF when your already behind
the Linksys device? Personally I think the Linksys provides adequate protection from unauthorized
public internet access. If you really want to do that then look at the free ZoneAlarm product. You
can setup a local protection zone that allows for local networking.

--
Al Jarvi (MS-MVP Windows Networking)

Please post *ALL* questions and replies to the news group for the mutual benefit of all of us...
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[Steve Winograd [MVP]]

When setting up my home network with a Linksys cable
variety router, I couldn't communicate between
computers. I could ping the router successfully, but not
computer to computer. I called Linksys and they told me
to disable the firewall in the network properties
settings.

Anyone have a workaround so I can still enjoy firewall
protection built into XP?

Thanks. Bill Schaffer

I agree with Linksys, Bill. Since you have a router, I don't see any
reason to run XP's firewall.

The router has a built-in firewall function that protects your network
against access by other Internet users. As you've discovered, XP's
firewall blocks communications between your computers.
--
Best Wishes,
Steve Winograd, MS-MVP (Windows Networking)

Please post any reply as a follow-up message in the news group
for everyone to see. I'm sorry, but I don't answer questions
addressed directly to me in E-mail or news groups.

Microsoft Most Valuable Professional Program
http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

 

[Bob Willard]

When setting up my home network with a Linksys cable
variety router, I couldn't communicate between
computers. I could ping the router successfully, but not
computer to computer. I called Linksys and they told me
to disable the firewall in the network properties
settings.

Anyone have a workaround so I can still enjoy firewall
protection built into XP?

Thanks. Bill Schaffer

Disable ICF, since it inhibits sharing on your LAN.

Your router is a decent firewall against inbound traffic. But it does
not supply any protection against outbound traffic, like trojans, so
I recommend also using a firewall on each PC, such as one of the
ZoneAlarm products (www.ZoneLabs.com).