The Difference Between a Hardware Firewall & a Software Firewall
Hardwall and software firewalls protect computers by blocking suspicious traffic from the internet. A hardware firewall is a physical piece of equipment attached to a computer system, while a software firewall is a program installed on a computer. Hardware firewalls have the benefit of protecting multiple computers on a network, while software firewalls may be adequate for an individual user's needs.
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Hardware Firewall
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A hardware firewall is an external device that is plugged into a computer before it connects to the Internet. A broadband router is one example of a hardware firewall.
Software Firewall
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Software firewalls are programs that can be installed on your computer by downloading them directly from a website or loading them from a CD or DVD. Software firewalls are sometimes included as part of an internet security package. Norton Internet Security and Kaspersky Internet Security, for example, both come with a firewall.
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Comparisons
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Hardware firewalls are more expensive than software ones and are commonly used on networks accessed by multiple computers. The Evalue IT website notes that they "have the advantage of being separate from your computer, should your computer pick up a virus which could potentially deactivate your firewall." Software firewalls are suitable for most home users, and some firewall software may include a good level of protection against viruses and spyware.
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