ZoneAlarm 2.6.357

CNET editors' review

Reviewed by: CNET Staff

An effective and easy-to-use firewall program, ZoneAlarm does a great job of keeping your PC safe from a variety of threats. ZoneAlarm makes configuring a firewall, which sounds like a daunting task to the majority of computer users, incredibly easy with a wizard. Maintaining and updating settings also is a snap when you're using the stylish interface and its simple slider controls. The program's Zones feature also allows you to assign different security levels for a local network and for the Internet. We found ZoneAlarm very good at recognizing and automatically including settings for our local network. In all our tests, the firewall guarded against all external and internal threats it encountered. Therefore, we think ZoneAlarm is an excellent firewall choice for just about any average user.

Publisher's description

From ZoneAlarm :

ZoneAlarm is designed to protect your DSL or cable-connected PC from hackers. This program includes four interlocking security services: a firewall, an Application Control, an Internet Lock, and Zones. The firewall controls the door to your computer and allows only traffic that you understand and initiate. The Application Control allows you to decide which applications can and cannot use the Internet. The Internet Lock blocks Internet traffic while your computer is unattended or while you are not using the Internet, and it can be activated automatically with your computer's screensaver or after a set period of inactivity. Zones monitor all activity on your computer and alert you when a new application attempts to access the Internet.

ZoneAlarm 2.6 features a new tutorial, improved color-coded Alerts with ratings and advice, as well as enhanced online help. ZoneAlarm 2.6 also has "hardened" security at the operating system level to safeguard users from the latest forms of Internet sabotage and includes improved intrusion blocking. Version 2.6.357 features improved advice for every alert, support for Windows XP, improved stability, bug fixes related to Windows NT and SP6A, blocking for uncommon IP protocols, and more.

This download is free for individuals and nonprofit organizations. For commercial and government use, registration is $19.95.

More popular Encryption Software downloads

1. 52,290 downloads 1. RoboForm
2. 28,542 downloads 2. Hotspot Shield
3. 20,506 downloads 3. Computer Use Reporter
4. 6,791 downloads 4. Folder Lock
5. 3,667 downloads 5. RAR Password Cracker
6. See all Encryption Software downloads