...but it is

Zone Labs did the unthinkable, offering a product others charge $20 for in computer stores, free. But first...

A fire what?
A firewall is a software or hardware that blocks unwanted connections to your computer. Common hardware blockers are routers, most cable and DSL have them built in, and a few others. Software firewalls monitor your ports and block connections from the outside not associated with the programs you have enabled for it.
aka
It keeps hackers and trojans out.

Do I need one?

Do you own an instant messaging program?
Do you post on bulletin boards?
Do you go into chat rooms?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need one, and Zone Labs's Zone Alarm is a good choice.

Sounds like some techincal stuff is involved...

Not really, download, install. BAM! You got protection. Anytime a file on your computer wants access to the internet, it needs your ok. A small pop-up appears in the bottom right asking you. You may be surprised when you first boot it up that you may have a trojan on there, I was. It also blocks incoming requests not authorized by you. Hackers no more, if a person threatens to hack you, just say go ahead. You'll like the results =).

Still, don't go around thinking your immune, I'm sure if somebody can crack The White House somebody can crack a free firewall.

Sounds fine and dandy, any drawbacks?

Not much except one small problem. With most IM programs, if you want to send or receive a file, it will be much harder with the firewall up. You can always just close the program, so this issue is minor. Also, if you want reporting, you must buy the full version.

The Bottom Line
Zone Labs knows their stuff, and this program is proof.

Recommended: Yes