Fellow listers,

A new subject for me, probably old boot for you, but...

I'm thinking about installing a firewall and I have a few questions. Please excuse my ignorance on
the subject, but when we talk firewalls, we are talking physical hardware, not software, correct? I
don't know what info you may need to answer my questions, but I have a simple 2 machine intranet.
One connects to the net, the other does not. I would like to configure both to share an Internet
connection.

1. I have a cable connection using a Terapro modem, which is rented. If I purchase a firewall, what
other cables/components will I need, and what does the installation involve? Will I still require
the Terapro?

2. If I successfully install a firewall, can I get rid of Zone Alarm altogether, and if so, how am I
protected from hackers?

3. Are there specific brands one should consider, or are they all pretty much alike? What's a good
ballpark dollar figure, and should I consider any specific supplier? I'm in Canada and my cable
company offers the following:

All prices in Canadian $
SOHO router/firewall 4 port switch$ 119.95
SOHO router/firewall 4 port switch & print server$ 169.95
SOHO router/firewall 7 port switch$ 229.95

Does this look fair? How do I determine which one I need? Thanks in advance for your time and
advice.

Al Thompson

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