Hardware firewalls are external devices that plug into your computer before it is plugged into your modem/router. They are separate from your computer, as they are completly separte they avoid any performance impact on your computer. Should you be connected to the internet via a network of computers, or via a wireless connection, your ‘router’ may have a firewall included.

Netgear VPN Firewall ADSL Router

With all the new viruses that have been released on the public in the last few years, it takes constant updates of software to combat these computer destructive bugs.

As recently as five years ago, hackers pretty much ignored home and small office internet users. This is no longer the case. As more and more individuals and businesses connect to the Internet, hackers are targeting home and small business users in ever increasing numbers.