What is the "best" combination of Internet security and privacy services, hardware and software? The practical answer is good products that meet your needs that do not interfere with each other. For example, a three computer home network for two adults and two kids, you could use an Internet gateway (hardware and security software) or a security software suite licensed for use on three computers (firewall, anti-virus...), anti-spyware software, content filter, browser tracks eraser and password manager (privacy software), a firewall router (hardware, wired or wireless), and an online email service with anti-virus and spam filters. You would set up Windows and security software for automatic updates. With DSL or cable modem service, all of these updates are fast.Layers of defense are the best approach, so you should have two firewalls (software and hardware) and two anti-virus (online and desktop software). However, using two software firewalls is not a good idea. That is why you should use a hardware and software combination. For anti-virus, using an online email service with back up by anti-virus software on your computer is the best combination. Note: This is only one example. There are lots of other combinations that may better meet your specific needs.

How do I uninstall a firewall? The usual way (see below). Most people who ask this question got an error message while using an online service like email, chat or music. If you did not install a firewall and your computer is not connected to the Internet via a local area network (LAN), check the technical support FAQ at whatever service gave you the error message. If you are on a LAN, check with the administrator. The usual way -- Turn the firewall off, then run the program's own uninstaller utility, if there is one. Select Start, Programs, [Program Name], Uninstall [Program Name] (or [Program Name] Uninstaller). You'll usually be asked to confirm that you want to remove the program; click OK. If the application doesn't have an uninstall option, try the Windows Add/Remove feature in the Control Panel. Choose Start, Settings, Control Panel, Add/Remove Programs. Select the firewall from the list (if it's there), then click Remove.

What is a personal firewall for? Incoming and outgoing protection. Protecting your computer from intrusion (scanning or attack) by hackers or script kiddies while it is connected to the Internet. Outgoing to prevent a trojan horse installed on your computer from "phoning" home. For more information, see the articles on our overview and firewall pages.

Does personal firewall software give complete online security? No. At a minimum, you also need anti-virus and anti-spyware software to provide a reasonable level of security. You may also want software for email encryption, trojan detection and removal, VPN for telecommuters, cookie manager or cleaner, ad blocker, personal data privacy, and parental controls for content filtering. Many, but not all, of these features are offered by software suites; see our privacy page for more information.

Does any combination of software and hardware provide complete security? No. Someone somewhere is always creating a new virus, worm, trojan horse, spyware, or another new way to break through a firewall. You should use products that are updated on a regular basis by their vendors for protection from "known" attacks. Most Internet users can achieve a reasonable level of security with modest effort at low cost.

What is the best choice? A combination of personal firewall software and a hardware router with firewall features (wired or wireless).