Security → Best Free Firewall?

I have been using eTrust Personal Firewall version:5.5.114.000 for a while now.
I have had no problems but was thinking of upgrading to a better newer firewall. The only reason that I am considering a change is the age of the version that I am using.

I am considering ZoneAlarm Free 7.0.302.0, because they are pretty much the same thing, but is that a good idea?

Is there anything better that I can try out that will keep my 2 comps same and secure behind my router?

I use Comodo and I'm happy with that.

You might want to check out the posts in the 2007 Firewall Poll.

I switched my home PC to Comodo from ZA-Free and am pleased with the improved performance and stability.

I think I will try Comodo. I have copies of zonealarm and the CA one I use now to switch to if I don't like it. Thanks for the input. It is greatly appreciated.

I like the free PC Tools firewall.

I would go with ZA free. Comodo is far too busy, too many pop-ups. And if you just allow your most common apps (like your browser) free access, then your defeating the purpose of a firewall like Comodo. You should set your firewall to always prompt when your browser wants internet access, that is if you care about security.

PCTools FW is still too new and has a few problems to be worked out, but not a bad firewall and still useable at this time. Runs light too. I'm keeping an eye on this one. It's based on the Look n Stop code, which is a good firewall. I would only currently run PCT FW with something like SSM running along side it though for extra protection at this time.

Passing leak tests should not be a gauge for selecting a firewall IMO. Leak tests are way over rated and are not real malware, so just because a leak test can bypass your firewall doesn't mean malware that used a similar bypass technique could do the same. Leak test are just tests, they don't operate the same way malware would. Just make sure you have a good solid AV running resident.

And if your concerned about extra security just run an app like SSM along with your firewall. That should give you a pretty tight system and allow you to pass most of the so called 'leak tests'.

Using Comodo (version 2.4.18.184) here and no pop-ups.Maybe you were using an older one.

Very pleased with it.

The pop-ups are frequent while you have it in the "Learning Mode". That mode can be changed by the user.

I have CA internet security software and it won't let me install zonealarm. Is there anything I can do?

I installed Comodo 5 days ago and have been very pleased so far - within a day or two the "learning" pop ups cut down dramatically.

You can actually have it scan a list of programs on your machine as well...

If you don't want a learning curve then ZA Free is good.