Great post, bellgamin. I have a question about numbers 3 and 3a. I have used and
do like OnlineArmor. I especially like the built in HIPS functions. At least I
call it HIPS. So I guess using Threatfire or any of the other stand alone HIPS
programs gives double layered protection. I used to use the SSM or System Safety
Monitor freeware version. I have since abandoned HIPS programs for Trust-No-Exe.
I know it is much older and is not really a HIPS program but does what I need
and uses no resources at all. The majority of computers I have seen used by
average people (and that excludes everyone reading this) were so crippled by
the redundant use of of Antivirus, antispyware, etc. programs so as to make them
almost unusable. So for the typical user this is often a comcern.
It is why on this small computer I use Omega Tweaker, Spywareblaster,
Spybot, SafeXP, XPAntispy, SafeXP, Trust-No-Exe and Kerio 2.1.5 with the BZ rule
set. I do not think those programs use any resouces at all. But I have been off
of my questions since I started. Just wanted to give some background info.
I think the old Kerio 2.1.5 is as safe or safer than any newer firewall there
is (excluding the HIPS functions) as there is some truth to the statement that
a firewall is only as good as it's rules. I have only heard of one problem it
has which is the inability to block fragmented packets. So I'm looking for any
ways to do that. Programs and registry fixes are most welcome.
Does anyone have any recommendations for programs such as packet filters?
How about programs to make registry changes so I do not have to manually?
Any downloads of old unsupported programs are also good. I have looked
for CHX I for a very long time but am unable to find it.