I've used the free version since 1997 now. It is easy to set up, easy on system resources and very effective (passes the very tough GRC all ports tests always).
A good firewall (any firewall is likely better than the XP standard one as that only stops incoming attacks, and does nothing if you have a virus trying to access the net to do it's damage) is your last line of defense.
Two months ago I stupidly clicked on that MSN .pif link virus that was going around. I fortunately realized I'd made an error after I clicked it. It had to access the internet to do any ''real'' damage and I denied it access through my Zone Alarm and I went unharmed-- sadly, it did send the .pif link through my friends lists and those who weren't well protected suffered due to my stupidity. But Zone Alarm saved my bacon!
Hi - can you gurus tell me if I need Zone Alarm Pro or is the ordinary one (the freeware one) sufficient for an ordinary mortal? I have at present Norton AV with a current update, but it lets quite a number of virii slip by. Is the ZA better in your opinion, and if so - again - do I need the professional one? I run at present a single computer only, with XP Pro SP2, AMD 2400+ processor, 512 MB of memory and two hard disks totalling 120 Giga. Mainly chats, participating in forums, and editing plus transmitting digital photographs. All answers will be appreciated. Amos.

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