I subscribe to a newsletter from Bob Rankin (Ask Bob Rankin: http://askbobrankin.com) and have learned much so much about computers. In one of his newsletters he states that running a Windows Firewall is adequate - no need for another type of software firewall (although he recommends a hardware firewall).
I use a NAT router for my home computers. I have used Zone Alarms freeby but it bogged my machine down so much it became very annoying - and therefore I removed it. Currently, I'm using Windows Firewall (XP Home Edition - SP3) with Avast's free antivirus package (Home Edition 4). Is this adequate protection? Is Steve Gibsons ShieldsUp program still relevant or has Microsoft improved their firewall enough.
Thanks for any information you may provide.