Attacks against computer networks have been a reality for some time. However, in the past few years as more individuals have gone online—using faster connections—hackers have begun targeting the personal information of "everyday" home users. This is why firewalls are essential for any computer connected to the Internet. Broadband connections (cable or DSL) are particularly vulnerable to attacks, because they expose your computer to the Internet 24/7. There is also a risk from "sharing the wire;" neighbors with the same cable service could trespass on your computer.

A good firewall acts like a protective barrier around your computer, blocking all unauthorized access. A ZoneAlarm firewall goes one step further: it makes your computer "invisible."

• ZoneAlarm® firewalls block access to intruders—without disclosing the location of your computer (Stealth Mode).
• ZoneAlarm firewalls alert you when access to your computer has been detected and blocked (Firewall Alert).
• ZoneAlarm Pro traces the location of the intruder and allows you to report the activity to the appropriate people (Hacker ID).

Bad software, such as spyware, Trojan horses, worms and viruses can be installed on your computer without your knowledge. ZoneAlarm firewalls detect these programs, alert you to their activity, and stop them from stealing your information.

There are a number of ways that bad software can get on your computer. Two of the most common ways are: when you open an email attachment that contains a virus or worm and when you inadvertently install bad software that "piggy-packed" on a program downloaded from the Internet. Once installed these programs can quietly connect to the Internet and send information back to the program's developer. Unscrupulous marketers can use spyware to collect information about surfing habits of you and your family. Hackers can use Trojan horses to steal your identity, hijack your computer and use it to store pornography or send SPAM to thousands of people.

• ZoneAlarm firewalls block attackers from coming in AND alerts you when bad software programs attempt to send information out.
• ZoneAlarm firewalls alert you when an unapproved software program attempts to access the Internet, allowing you to shut it down before it does any damage.
• The "MailSafe" feature in ZoneAlarm Pro alerts you if bad software tries to email itself to someone—or everyone—in your email address book. This is what Sobig.f tried to do.

Connecting to the Internet can be safe. With a ZoneAlarm firewall your security can also be simple. ZoneAlarm firewalls are available online and can be downloaded in minutes. Step by step instructions get you up and running quickly. We have also created a community of users that help each other with any questions that arise. If you purchase ZoneAlarm Plus or ZoneAlarm Pro you will also receive free support from our trained technical specialists and you will be eligible to receive free of charge any new version of the product we release for a full year after your purchase.