Manage updates with the Download AppCNET Editors' review
If you're running a fairly recent edition of Windows, you're probably also using the built-in Windows Firewall. It does a good job, but there's no reason not to take advantage of much more capable (yet just as free) firewalls, especially when they're easier to use and come with significant extras. Take Comodo Firewall: This full-featured, multilayer firewall application uses cloud-based data to analyze new programs and data to prevent attacks, including zero-day attacks. It protects your system from viruses, Trojans, worms, hacker attacks, and other threats. Extras include a Geek Buddy subscription, the SecureDNS network, and a speedy, secure Web browser, Comodo Dragon.
Comodo Firewall's setup includes three network locations, with appropriate security levels for each: Home, Work, and Public. We chose Home. Comodo Firewall's operation is very much like other firewalls we've tried: the first time you use a program or access a Web site with the firewall running, you need to enable it in a pop-up that remembers your choice unless you tell it otherwise. The firewall's system tray icon accesses a menu that let us configure the Firewall and Defense & Security levels, and also its Sandbox feature and Game Mode.
Setup required a reboot, as did some settings, such as the Proactive Security Configuration. A simple, colorful interface gave us quick access to the two main components, the Firewall and Defense+ features. In daily use, Comodo Firewall is every bit as unobtrusive and easy to manage as the most popular free standalone firewalls for Windows, and just as flexible. It also includes lots of help options, such as the Geek Buddy feature and online forums and documentation.
We also like Dragon, which we updated shortly after installing it. Dragon automatically imported favorites, history, passwords, and other data we specified from our default browser (Chrome) including our bookmarks toolbar (thanks). Dragon is Chrome's cousin; it's based on the Chromium engine. Dragon is great for trying SecureDNS without altering your network settings. The SecureDNS network offers various security features, and it didn't slow down our browsing. Comodo Firewall is a top contender among free firewall applications.
Publisher's Description
From Comodo:
Comodo's free Firewall is your first layer of defense against viruses, worms, Trojans, hackers and all Internet threats. Comodo's Firewall uses Default Deny Protection to prevent threats from occurring, rather than just detecting them when it's already too late. Whenever an unknown piece of software is introduced to your system, Comodo Firewall cross-references it with a white-list of over 15 million trusted files and applications. If the file asking for access is on the list, Comodo Firewall can be sure it's safe for your computer to allow it to execute. If not, Comodo Firewall will alert you that a possibly malicious file is trying to enter your PC. The latest version sees a major leap forward in security and usability with the addition of cloud based scanning and behavior analysis of unrecognized files - making Comodo Firewall unbeatable at detecting zero-day attacks. Under default settings, unknown and untrusted files are automatically scanned by our cloud-based virus scanners then, while the file undergoes behavior analysis on our cloud server, it is run in a virtual environment (sandbox) on your local machine so that it cannot modify or affect data on your 'real' system. This ground-breaking method of protecting your PC means that only trusted applications are allowed to run. Malware and untrusted files get nowhere near anything important AND you get to use your computer without interruption from nagging alerts. The software also boasts a powerful packet filtering firewall that helps you securely connect to the internet while blocking hackers from making incoming connections. It's easy to use and features an attractive interface that lets even beginners change settings to their liking. Comodo Firewall comes with automatic updates and is winner of the prestigious Editor's Choice award from PCMag.com. Download it now and find out why prevention-based protection is the security technology of the future. Comodo Firewall is completely free for life.
What's new in this version: Trustconnect - CIS auto-detects unsecured wireless connections and lets you connect using TrustConnect. Faster AV scans with 'Smart Scan' Technology improved. Malware deletion capabilities improved. Dragon browser is included with CIS fixed. Various bug fixes to improve security/performance.
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All versions:
3.7 starsout of 187 votes
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Current version:
2.6 starsout of 26 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"I was excited!"
Version: Comodo Firewall 5.12
Pros
The interface and tools are easy to use, and look cool.
Cons
After reading the review from the editor, I quickly downloaded the software and installed it. Firefox would not run at all as my window would freeze. Other programs started freezing and I would have to continually reboot my windows 8 box.
Summary
I was very disappointed, but it just was not worth the hassle.
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"Fast, Light, Effective!"
Version: Comodo Firewall 5.12
Pros
See summary.
Cons
See summary.
Summary
It seems many of the negative reviews on here are from people who have confused the "Comodo Internet Security Suite" with the standalone "Comodo Firewall".
It's very light, fast, and effective. Online leak tests give it 100% positive results. Stealths all ports and blocks all attacks. Very user friendly and easy to configure.
It does in fact have many customization options, it has a detailed Event Log, and it's not "bloatware" like someone here stated. The added software like the "Dragon Browser" and the Remote TechSupport application are part of the Comodo Security Suite, NOT the standalone Comodo Firewall.
I agree that the Security Suite is bloatware. But the standalone Comodo Firewall is an excellent product! I would recommend it any day! -
"like said before: the new version is total crap"
Version: Comodo Firewall 5.12
Pros
doesn't crash the system
Cons
totally useless
Summary
All the configuration features have been removed in this new version. If you need a simple firewall use the built in Windows firewall (at least if you're Windows 7). If you need a firewall with advanced configurability then you have to look somewhere else.
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"New Version: Total Crap"
Version: Comodo Firewall 5.12
Pros
None. None. None.
Cons
All. This Software used to be the best firewall out there, but now not anymore...
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"New Version - total crap"
Version: Comodo Firewall 5.12
Pros
Blocks traffic
Cons
Interface is a total nightmare. Does not 'remember' settings.
Has a mind of it's ownSummary
Used to be my favorite security app. Previous version was rock solid - gave back good information about application control and firewall events. This version (6.0) is being un-installed as I write this.
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"I love this firewall."
Version: Comodo Firewall 5.12
Pros
Many more options when compared to windows firewall. Instead of just blocking programs it gives you the option to allow said programs. This is especially helpful when I'm trying to play games.
Cons
Very complicated when you first open it.
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"Crashed my PC"
Version: Comodo Firewall 5.12
Pros
None. It crashed.
Cons
I consider it Malware. Make that Evilware. Full of extra crap.
Must manually uninstall after trying Control Panel.Summary
I tried to avoid installing extra crapware bundled with it and failed. I tried to run it and it crashed my computer. On reboot I
went into control panel hoping for a clean uninstall. No dice. I had
to search for everything myself. There are probably parts of it still stashed on my drive. Very evil of Comodo. Evilware - Avoid. -
"New version is just bloatware, CNET review not updated"
Version: Comodo Firewall 5.12
Pros
None I can identify. The new version is not customizable and you have no activity log so you have no idea of what is doing. I'm not even sure it's blocking anything.
Cons
120Mb of bloatware. The firewall software is not customizable anymore,no activity log is provided, netc. On top of that, additional bloatware (a browser called dragon, a technical support app that is probably a huge security risk and another crap I couldn't understand the purpose) is installed and you have no option to opt out. You will have to uninstall each piece separately after. Classy!
Summary
Do not install. Keep the windows one or try a competitor. Comodo is dead.
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"Good protection, bad for mmo games"
Version: Comodo Firewall 5.12
Pros
no hassle, easy to get up and running
pretty good protection
it's freeCons
Unless your a techie guru, you won't be able to customize it
If you play games which patches often, you will have to download the patch 2x
Allowing programs through the firewall, is difficult at best.Summary
With online games and MMOs, this firewall sucks. Everytime there is a patch, I have to download it twice. First it downloads and Comodo blocks the patching process, which causes it to fail. Then I have to tell it not to sandbox the patch, and download again. I have set the game as a trusted application, making sure that all files were allowed, but every patch, it causes the same issues. I am tired of this crap, and am removing it.
For non-gamers, this is probably a god-send. Unfortunately, I am a gamer. -
"Comodo Firewall is the best the I have used."
Version: Comodo Firewall 5.12
Pros
Better firewall then zone alarm 11 firewall. Doesn't slow your system, very light on resources. Easy install, easy setup. Work very good with avast 8. Zone alarm 11 caused computer to crash with the BSOD. I like that they have a list a trusted vendors, makes it safer to download. I would download it from Comodo's website because this is a outdated version. The new version is Version 6.0.260739.2674: 19 December , 2012.
Cons
None that i see so far. Outed version here. Have to go to Comodo's website for newest version.
Summary
I would say this the best firewall that i have used and works well with avast 8. Very good on system resources, not causing freezing like zone alarm 11. Internet seems more secure with this firewall, especially with the trusted vendors list. Easy install and setup. I would have to say, if you want a great firewall then use Comodo. Get the newest version from Comodo's website.
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