An active firewall that constantly analyzes traffic to identify and keep at bay possible threats is a must have, as most users already know. Among the best choices there's ZoneAlarm Pro, a powerful security solution that can protect the computer against Internet attacks, identity theft, phishing, spyware and more.
Just like in the case of any of it peers, using such an application will need some time to get accustomed to. ZoneAlarm Pro's interface, though, is pleasant enough to speed up the whole process and guide you while trying to take advantage of its features.
Since ZoneAlarm Pro provides real time protection against all threats, its behavior is highly customizable, so you definitely have to take a look in the settings menu to be sure it perfectly fits your needs.
Among the top features, ZoneAlarm Pro comes with a two-way firewall, identity theft protection, online backup services and a special tool to analyze the files you download and guard the computer. The software also helps detect dangerous websites that are involved in phishing or spyware distribution.
Besides the firewall, which obviously enables you to set your very own rules, the application control feature is one of the things that impressed us the most during our test, giving you full control over the programs that need Internet access.
Gamers will surely be glad to discover the 'Game Mode' that suppresses most of the alerts so you can enjoy playing with your friends online. Nonetheless, you should be careful when choosing this mode because it comes with two settings for automatically answering all alerts with 'Deny' or 'Allow'. The first setting could block some legitimate applications but it's advisable to use it as the second choice could allow unknown software to penetrate your defense.
That being said, ZoneAlarm Pro remains one of the top security solutions out there and it provides very strong protection in a highly customizable and user friendly package.
Limitations:
· 30 days trial
· Nag screen
Users are advised to pay attention while installing this ad-supported application:
· Offers to change the homepage for web browsers installed in the system
· Offers to change the default search engine for web browsers installed in the system
· Offers to download or install software or components (ZoneAlarm Security Toolbar) that the program does not require to fully function