Don't quote me but...

The Windows Firewall will not be a "real" firewall until longhorn. Along with full Anti Virus. Though "parts" may see the light of day around the release of XP Reloaded, if Microsoft still decides to release yet another interim release between XP and longhorn. What does "parts" mean?

"They" are not really saying, but IP6 comes into the picture some where. ;) That and "some" believe a new and improved user interface. Also some are saying that by default, all third party know applications will be blocked as well. Via "Security Center".

For example if you download Mozila FireFox and attempt to install it you will get a warning dialog and maybe even denied access according to "access rules via Security Center". Meaning the Admin can deny third party appz. Pretty cool? That is if the user keeps control and Microsoft just does not block everything that is not digitally signed by Microsoft Corp.

Kinda scary at the same time. Nice for system admins though. :P

And of course advanced control over third party appz. You know like different configs for know appz. To setup the firewall correctly etc. For example opening ports for certain games automatticly. Etc.

Just like every other real third party firewall.

I just hope there is as much control as in zone alarm and sygate.

Though it might be doubtfull even with longhorn. Seeing as some believe Microsoft should just give up on the whole firewall and anti virus idea as it is. Since Microsoft will just screw it up anyways. ;)

Again right out of the box.

Added a Poll. :)

Please disregard the Hardware Routers/Firewalls if you have one. The poll question only applies for Software Firewalls.

Cheers,
McoreD

Well, Internet Connection Firewall (ICF) has prevented my PC getting the blaster virus when it was widely spreading. Now Windows Firewall is an improved version of ICF.

I don't have any problems so far with Windows Firewall. Tested with GRC and I am satisfied with the results. For now, I am only installing a 3rd party antivirus and prefer to keep Windows Firewall ON. :)

I'm staying with Sygate, at least for the foreseeable future. WinXP firewall may work, but I know Sygate does. :)

Oh whoops yeah forgot to say I'm sticking with Sygate too. :)

Just tried Sygate Personal Firewall 5.5. It doesn't detect in Security Center does it?

well. I used sygate for a long time, but now have switched the the XP firewall; that, with the built in protection from my USR 8200 Secure Storage Router Pro seems to be plenty for me; yeah, the XP firewall doesnt seem to catch ALL outbound traffic, but aren't most folks here using a router anyway??