Is a local firewall actually necessary?

ITKE

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Firewall management

Firewalls

Security

I'm not a security expert but is having local firewalls (enabled on different machines) necessary if you're already running hardware firewalls, like Netgear, that controls in/outbound connections?

Does it just added another layer of protection? Thanks!

Asked: November 14, 2013 9:18 PM Last updated: November 18, 2013 5:30 PM

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TomLiotta Nov 15, 2013 1:57 AM GMT

Necessary for whom? The environment needs to be well described before 'necessity' can be discussed. Here (where I'm posting from), the answer would be "No." -- Tom

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bhannah Nov 18, 2013 3:36 PM GMT

Speaking from a PC and Network Security standpoint, yes, you should. Your Network Firewall should be protecting you on a network level from intrusions, but in most cases, it will not protect the local machine. That is where the software firewall on the local machine comes in. The software firewall should be easily configurable to allow certain types of connections to the local machine, but should be scanning for anything that is not allowed for.

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Kevin Beaver Nov 18, 2013 5:30 PM GMT

They're not foolproof but host-based firewalls are another security hoop so to speak and are usually recommended. They can help prevent LAN users from accessing resources they shouldn't access and also help thwart malware outbreaks. Yet, still, it depends on what you're trying to accomplish.

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