While you may know what firewall software is you may be wondering how to implement it. This doesn't take a mental giant or any kind of certification to do. To those that have little knowledge of computers it may seem like a complicated process but it is actually straightforward. You simply install it like you would any other program.

This is of course assuming that the firewall software we're talking about is separate from your machine and not installed on a router. Software firewalls are usually program files that you have downloaded or ordered. You install them by clicking on their program icon or inserting the disk that came with the box you ordered. From here the usual program installation process that you are familiar with takes hold.

After installation is complete the firewall may restart your computer and then begin operations. Usually after the restart most competent firewalls will do a scan of your installed programs. This is so they don't accidentally block legitimate programs from accessing the internet. This can be rather annoying as you might guess.

After this is done the firewall software will begin running quietly in the background protecting your from malicious software. It's important to note that firewalls are not scanners; they cannot scan and remove a threat already installed on your machine. They are simply meant to block incoming problems similar to how a castle wall would block ancient warriors from sacking the buildings that it protected.

Firewall software that is installed on a router or a switch is a much different story. These require some adept computer knowledge to set up as they are installed on their own hardware separate from the computers attached to them. You connect to a router or a switch by plugging an Ethernet cable into it and the machines that are going to be run through it. Alternatively you can connect wirelessly if you have the equipment.

From here the software inside the router or switch needs to be configured. This can consist of setting up private server connections, virtual server connections, DMZ's, and a whole sleuth of other things that would confuse the average computer user. Most manufacturers however put the firewall in an obvious spot so it can be found and accessed easily.

In most cases setting up the firewall for a router can involve some steps not taken by software firewalls on computers. For instance you can shut down access to certain ip addresses or block entire port ranges. However most of them are set up to allow general access and protect from parasites automatically. This means that unless you are setting up a network for a business you should be fine.