BlackICE PC Protection Living in an Insecure World Forrest Stroud
At CWSApps we have a general policy of only reviewing software programs for which an evaluation of some form is available for download on the Internet. But every once in a while we find an app that we believe is too important or too useful not to review. BlackICE PC Protection is a prime example of an exception to our rule.
This is one application you will definitely want to consider purchasing if you work on a network, and especially so if you connect to the Internet via a cable modem, ISDN, or DSL line. The security of your network should be of critical concern if you access the Internet in any form through your LAN. It's even more important if you access the Internet via an "always on" connection such as DSL, G.Lite, ISDN, or a Cable Modem. Home network users are at the most risk, especially those without a firewall in place or those who leave the Windows file and print sharing option on.
If you're lucky enough to have an "always on" connection, you should be aware of just how exposed your computer is to the rest of the world. It's really quite scary — hackers can infiltrate your system and use your computer without any visible signs or warnings whatsoever. The damage that can be done is equally frightening — obtaining personal information like bank account and credit card numbers or transmitting illegal data to the Internet through your network are only two examples of what you should be concerned about.
Still, for those who absolutely must have the best of both worlds — a permanent connection to the Internet and the ability to share files and/or printers over a LAN — reducing the risk of having your network hacked is of paramount importance. That's were BlackICE steps in.