Computer Gurus

[TURKEY]

I've got a question, I've been thinking about lately.

I have a cable modem. I know people can hack in and access my files theoretically when it is on. But can they access it when it's off, but my computer is on? Do I have to be running the modem to give them access?

What about with a regular modem?


I know the answer is probally no when it's not on or connected.

I've been pondering that question instead of studying for 2 tests that I have before the forth.

 

[CmdrTostada]

If the modem is not hooked into the computer they cant get in. If the computer is on and the modem is hooked in they can get in. I would reccomend getting a firewall like zonealarm found at zonealarm.com it is free.

 

[CmdrTostada]

But if the lights on the modem are off and their is no power to the modem they cant get in. If their is power to the modem they can get in.

 

[Donald_Quackers]

No, people cannot access the computer when the modem is off because they have no way to the computer. People can still do the same things using a dial-up connection, but it's a little more difficult because every time you dial in, you get a different address on the internet. If you want to be safe with your cable modem, I would recommend a firewall product called zonealarm, or you can get Norton Internet Firewall. You should be able to purchase these at your local Best Buy.

 

[CmdrTostada]

zonealarm is free to download at zonealarm.com

 

[TURKEY]

Everyone is just confirming what I thought.

I already have zonealarm (the free version). Does anyone have the pro version (that costs money)? What are advantages of paying and is it any better than the free version?

 

[CmdrTostada]

The pro version tells you what IP address is trying to get into your computer and all this crap. I dont think you need it.

 

[WDW-Imagineer]

Zone Alarm all the way. Great program, I have the professional version, but the free standard version works just fine.

 

[NowInc]

Just a bit of a reality check here::

1.) Why would anyone want acess to your computer? Most of us here on the internet are "unknowns" who are virtually un-findable unless you go LOOKING for trouble.

2.) anyone who knows how to acess another persons computer also knows how to get past a firewall

 

[The Mom]

I think I agree with Now! Most of the viruses and other "problems" get into our computers because we've "invited" (even if unknowlingly) them in!

Funny digression...I came downstairs one morning shortly after we had started using the net to find my husband swearing at the computer because it wouldn't let him open a particular attachment (on an email from a friend.) He said he had tried a few times...I told him to delete it immediately!!! (and empty the trash, too!) Later in the day, we discovered it was one of the popular viruses. I called the person involved....all of her mailing lists/phone lists had been infected...she worked from her home, and was on the board of at least 2 non-profits. From then on, if I'm having trouble opening an attachment or downloading something, I just stop....

But I also know a few people who HAVE to have that sort of security....and they're not just being paranoid!

 

[DMC-12]

I am on broadband cable.....but I have my own router...and that has its own built in firewall. I have McAffe Fire wall protection as well...but I did not install it......cause the one on my router is just fine...and the firewall programs on the puter tend to slow it down a bit

 

[no2apprentice]

From what I've read, for those who are really concerned about someone getting access to your files, buy a good encryption program, put all your sensitive data into key files, and use the encryption software to lock the files. Even if a hacker can defeat the firewalls, be it hardware or software, some of the new encryption codes are really tough.

But, like Now indicated, someone has to want access to your "unknown" system bad enough to defeat the firewalls. Most of us probably aren't "important" enough.

 

[Javier&Christie]

Originally posted by DMC-12
I am on broadband cable.....but I have my own router...and that has its own built in firewall. I have McAffe Fire wall protection as well...but I did not install it......cause the one on my router is just fine...and the firewall programs on the puter tend to slow it down a bit

I love my DSL router... I'm sure it could be compromised if someone REALLY wanted to get in, but they'd have to try pretty damn hard

It's also a print server, and I'll be setting up a web server running apache when I have the spare time.. woohooo :sohappy:

 

[orlpassholder]

Zone Alarm is a GREAT firewall.

If I am right the free version also tells you what ip, and or address is trying to access or ping your pc.

If your cable modem has no power then no one can access your pc. If your cable modem has power but your pc is turned off meaning it has no power then they still can not get in.

If the PC is on, and the modem is on yes they can access your pc.

Broadband connections are different from Dialup in more then just speed.

Broadband you have an ip "leased" to you in some cases. meaning the number that id's you (example 12.3.4.567) can be the same number for a few weeks to months.

Dialup your ip changes everytime you "login or dialup" your isp

So 12.3.4.567 may be your ip now. Disconnect for some reason then reconnect an hour later your ip could be 23.5.6.912

Which that makes it harder for hackers who are trying to get in. On broadband the IP doesnt chage that often so if you turn your pc off, and think in an hour you can go back on without the hacker trying to get at you. You will be surprise he/she will still be there trying your IP

A router with a built in firewall is nice to have (I run one at Geek HQ) I also have zonealarm running on all my pc's connected to the router. Why that much security you ask. IM PARANOID

Basically just practice safe net usuage. If you have a broadband connection by all means run a firewall. Make sure you have an anti-virus software installed on your pc also, and it is up to date.

If you want to share your broadband with multiple pc's in your home go with a router ( I have a linksys ) just remember if you have any problems your ISP will only trouble shoot up to the modem they will not trouble shoot the router etc since technically you are breaking one of their rules. WHO CARES

I know theres allot to read there but I figured I would add my 2 cents for what they are worth