ZoneAlarm facts for kids
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| Developer(s) | CheckPoint Software Technologies LTD. |
|---|---|
| Initial release | February 16, 2000 |
| Stable release | 15.8.038.18284 (January 23, 2020) |
| Preview release | None |
| Operating system | Microsoft Windows |
| Available in | English, French, German, Italian, Spanish |
| Type | Antivirus software, personal firewall |
| License | Freemium |
ZoneAlarm is a company that makes special computer programs to keep your internet connection safe. They create antivirus software and personal firewall products for people to use at home. ZoneAlarm was first made by a company called Zone Labs. In March 2004, another company named Check Point bought Zone Labs. ZoneAlarm's firewall programs help protect your computer from unwanted visitors. They also let you control which programs on your computer can connect to the internet.
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How ZoneAlarm Protects Your Computer
ZoneAlarm uses a clever system of "zones" to manage your network connections. Think of these zones as different security areas.
Understanding Network Zones
One zone is called the "trusted zone." This usually includes your local area network, like your home Wi-Fi. In this zone, you can safely share things like files and printers with other devices. The other zone is the "Internet zone." This includes everything outside your trusted network, like the entire internet.
Controlling Program Access
Before a program tries to connect to the internet, ZoneAlarm might ask you for permission. You can choose if the program can connect to your trusted network or the wider internet. This helps you decide what your programs are allowed to do online.
Key Security Features
ZoneAlarm has several important parts that work together to keep you safe.
TrueVector Internet Monitor
This part is like a security guard for your internet traffic. It's a special program that runs in the background. Its job is to watch all the data coming in and out of your computer. If it sees something trying to get in without permission, it will alert you.
Operating System Firewall
The OSFirewall is another important feature. It watches what programs on your computer are doing. If a program starts acting strangely or tries to do something suspicious, the OSFirewall will warn you. This helps stop harmful programs like rootkits and spyware from causing trouble.
SmartDefense Advisor
SmartDefense Advisor is a helpful service that comes with ZoneAlarm. When a program asks to connect to the internet, this advisor can give you advice. It uses a large database of trusted programs to help you decide if you should allow or block the connection. This makes it easier for you to make smart security choices.
Free Version Information
The free version of ZoneAlarm includes advertisements for the paid version. These ads might pop up on your screen shortly after you turn on your computer.
Awards and Recognition
ZoneAlarm's firewall products have received praise for their effectiveness. Both the free and paid "Pro" versions of ZoneAlarm Firewall were chosen as "Editor's Choice" by PCMag in 2017. This award means they were highly recommended by experts.
See also
In Spanish: ZoneAlarm para niños
- Comparison of antivirus software
- ZoneAlarm Z100G
