ZoneAlarm Free Firewall

ZoneAlarm Free Firewall protects your Windows PC from intrusions and online threats. It's easy to use and works alongside your antivirus and other security tools, including many other firewalls. Its Auto-Learn feature conforms to your computer use. After you've allowed your frequently used apps, ZoneAlarm mostly works in the background, only appearing when something changes, like when you install a new program -- or some hacker tries to.

To install ZoneAlarm Free Firewall, you must opt for an IE toolbar and search provider (which keeps ZoneAlarm free of charge), though they uninstall with a click; or (like us) you could simply use a different browser. ZoneAlarm's setup process includes selecting optional AUTO-LEARN and MAX SECURITY modes, and the wizard does a good job of explaining both. When done, ZoneAlarm indicated its status in its system tray icon and a main console that also offered Tools and other features.

But that's just the first step with ZoneAlarm. For a while, its security pop-ups will appear frequently, including the first time you run your programs and when your antivirus and other software updaters try to access the Internet. You can click "Allow" or "Deny," as required, and check a box to have ZoneAlarm remember your choice. After a while, the pop-ups appear less frequently, but don't get lazy and reflexively click "Allow" each time! ZoneAlarm Free Firewall is effective and easy to use.