Gents,OK, so now that I have the second computer built, I decided to network it with the old one.My question is, do I need to install my firewall on the second pc, as well as the first? I remember reading somewhere that the firewall (software) need only be installed on the host pc to protect all other computers on the network.I have not set up any kind of file sharing between the computers. I simply wanted to have Internet access with both machines. Here is a brief description of the setup:Computers 1(98se) & 2(XP) (both w/outpost software firewall) --> D-Link Router (DI-604 w/hardware firewall) --> cable modemThanks,Roger

With all this garbage about "My Doom", spammers, and hackers, I would install a software firewall on all computers as a second line of defence. Symantec Internet securuty is a good payware for online protection. Try ZoneAlarm Standard for a good freeware firewall. They also have a Pro version you can buy at most big box computer stores.

I have the DI-604 router/firewall myself, and find it to be a very secure item. Out of the box, it is very secure from the outside looking in, but it is "unsecure" when it comes to your computer transmitting information out... What I mean is that if your system gets infected with a trojan or virus which transmits information out, the default router settings will let it go no questions asked. It WILL protect you from people trying to connect in, however.Personally, I just use an antivirus package on my internal computers at home. This is my defense line against "soft" threats like trojans and worms. I use a 3rd party package (eg: not Outlook!) for email, which makes me feel a little more safe (whether it's just a feeling or if I actually am more secure is up for debate)For a computer saavy user, the DI-604 + Antivirus is probably all you'd need. But if you are in a family situation, software firewalls and monitors are probably worthwhile on computers you don't have 100% control over. I'd like to take this opportunity to plug the DI-604 as a worthwhile box. $50ish isn't bad for it's capabilities. I replaced my Linux-based firewall and server system for the DI-604 mainly because of power-consumption issues, and I have not felt like I took a major step backwards as far as security is concerned. The firewalling isn't as configurable as a full-fledged linux system, but it gets the job done well.-Greg

Thanks for the help guys.As for the DI-604, I wasn't completely sold until I found it at OfficeMax yesterday for $19.99 . They have a $20 "instant" and $10.00 "mail in" rebate going on right now (at least here that is).AS for protection I use the following on my computers:Agnitum Outpost Firewall (free version)AVG anti-virus Spybot S&DCheers,Roger