How safe is the built-in firewall in Windows 7? I will be getting a laptop running the 64-bit edition of Windows 7 Home Premium. I already know what antivirus program I will be using, and I could use Comodo Firewall, but I am wondering whether or not I need Comodo Firewall. I’ve heard positive things said about the built-in firewall that comes with Windows 7. Would I be safe with the built-in Windows 7 firewall or should I look for a different one?
Generally speaking the Windows built-in firewall is perfectly effective at what it does – block network access except on ports that have been opened.
Other firewalls generally have more feature, or better management but any firewall should be effective at blocking the ports.