Router firewall

[stevie m]

I have an active firewall on my wireless router so is there any point of having one on my pc as well

[ACtheTROLL]

yep

the firewall on your router blocks unsolicited incoming calls ans some of the less used outgoing - but the one on your pc blocks unwanted incoming but also asks which progs can do their thing (or at least should do)

so rtr firewall makes it hard for hackers (as does the dhcp server) to get in thus protecting the whole network from nasties - sort of locks and opens doors (once open anyone can get in)

pc fire stops individual progs doing their own thing without your permission. which sounds the same - but gives finer control to "ordinary" users (sort of guest list)

so open port 80 - the router will let any internet browser access web info
the pc however will stop nastyMacProg from using the connection but still let IE access sites

if the rtr blocks port 1234 - nothing gets out - from any part of your network
if your pc stops firefox - I can still use it on my pc

[ACtheTROLL]

I've just written it and don't understand it ;(

[Ethel]

You've given me a good belly laugh though, Ac

Yes, have one on your pc as well.

[stevie m]

ACtheTROLL, I thank you for a most enjoyable answer and will take my time dissecting the info and probably take Ethels advice. Thanks all the same

[fo3nix]

As the above says, yes.

Translation of AC's answer:
The firewall on the router and the one on your computer (software) are not the same.

The router firewall really just masks your address, so random people trying to get in don't know where your computers are.

The software firewall actively puts a cover over your computer, and only lets in and out specific services or programs.

[ACtheTROLL]

typical ......!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I spend hours writing an explanation - pouring my heart and soul into it.
the result - ethel gets a belly laugh

and fo3 nix it and puts it (better) into just 3 (short) paragraphs
there just ain't no justice ;-)

[fo3nix]

But your answer does include far more information...!