The only possible downside would be that some scenarios wouldn't work "out
of the box". Things like incoming connections, some games (where you are
hosting the game), etc. Most "client" scenarios (where you initiate contact
to others outside the firewall) should work just fine.
It is a very good idea to turn it on, or to have a firewall in general.
If you run into something that doesn't work, you aren't necessarily stuck
either. Check out the following link for info on how to configure the
firewall to allow incoming connections for certain applications to work:
Only use the XP Firewall on a direct connection to the Internet:
dial-up modem, DSL, cable modem, etc.
Don't use it on a local area network connection with other computers
through a broadband router or ICS host, because it blocks file and
printer sharing.
--
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.
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