What types of threats can a firewall stop?
A firewall can help protect your system from many types of threats and vulnerabilities, including: Hackers: Criminals that leverage system vulnerabilities, social engineering, and other techniques used to break into computer systems. Malware and viruses: Programs that can cause damage or can steal personal information for financial gain. Rootkits: A means for intruders to gain access to your computer and steal information from you. A rootkit can be installed on your computer without your knowledge. E-mail attacks: Everything from harmless, but annoying spam (electronic junk mail) or e-mail bombs (the same e-mail sent thousands of times until your system reaches capacity). Backdoors: A means of remotely accessing a computer and gaining control.