couldn't agree more! they let stuff through when you don't want and when you DO want - that's when they kick in!

 

best and free? i believe it is none other than windows firewall

 

Zone Alarm was good once. Comodo is fine now. All those shareware Security Suites from major protection companies like Kaspersky, Norton, AVG are pretty good, but sometimes I feel like there is no perfect piece of software in this branch of software development... yet.

 

Try Yoggie, system that blocks all Internet threats before they reach your computer. It has reasonable prices.

Yoggie Security Systems - Hardware-based Internet Security

 

Zonealarm free version. Never tried the PRO one, because the free version is fine for me.
The antivirus doesn't find the spywares every time and once I turned off the firewall, got an account hacked 1 week later.

 

The Shield Firewall 5.0 is the multi-layered security application that keeps hackers out and personal information in.

Built from the ground upwards with your security in mind, this award winning firewall constantly monitors and defends your system from inbound and outbound attacks. Version 5.0 now features a fully fledged Host Intrusion Prevention System to protect your critical operating system files and block viruses and malware before they ever get the chance to install.

It features a friendly graphical user interface; highly granular configuration options; easily understood and informative alerts; wizard-based detection of trusted zones and much more. The Shield Firewall 5.0 delivers enterprise class protection and can be used 'out of the box' - so even the most inexperienced users will not have to deal with complex configuration issues after installation.

PCSecurityShield provides free technical support for The Shield Firewall 5.0 customers as well as all PCSecurityShield products. The Shield Firewall 5.0 is Vista Compatible

 

I also use zonealarm, and I am comfortable with it. You can get it online, for free from zonealarm website.

 

I use sygate.This firewall, included in the Norton Internet Security product, provides a simple, unified way to stay protected from online threats. Norton Internet Security also includes essential protection from viruses, spyware, hackers, phishing, and more.

 

Even though windows firewall alone can't defend from everything, it is a good idea to have it on.

ZoneAlarm is a great product if you know your computer well. If you don't, you run the risk of denying access to a trustworthy program of yours and interrupting service, causing frustration. This seems like the most common reason why ZoneAlarm is disliked.

The best part about ZoneAlarm is that it blocks ALL packets inbound or outbound unless you state otherwise. When you are unsure about your computer's safety- ZoneAlarm is a good firewall to turn to. It's even free.

 

yeah i agree with clemryan. quality comes from quantity. if you look for something best, give your best.. anyway you have lots of options to take in the market.