Unfortunately, they still don't let you build rules that limit program access to specific ports or Internet protocols. These rules, which didn't exist in previous editions and may be reason enough to upgrade to version 4.5, are similar to those in Norton Personal Firewall 2004, although they are more difficult to configure. New to version 4.5 are expert-level rules that define specific access and activity privileges for programs that need Internet access. Click Yes the first time, and you're set thereafter. The program stops any desktop program that tries to access the Internet, then displays an alert that asks if you want to authorize the connection. ZoneAlarm Pro 4.5 configures itself to work with your default Internet browser during installation. Version 4.5 also includes an e-mail monitor that hunts for possible mass-mailing viruses and worms, a cookie manager, a pop-up and banner ad blocker, and an ActiveX and JavaScript defender. ZoneAlarm Pro 4.5's heart remains its personal firewall, a guardian that makes sure intruders can't get into your PC from the Internet. You can even minimize the entire window to show only the Stop and Lock buttons, which disable protection and prevent any Net connection, respectively. The design looks an awful lot like Windows XP, with navigational tabs at the left that display detailed settings when you click them. There are no major interface changes in 4.5 it sports the same glossy, simple-enough-for-everyone look and feel as the last edition. ZoneAlarm's top screen quickly summarizes recent intrusion attempts. Naturally, you can make additional changes at any time. Keep clicking the Next button to arm your computer with the default defenses, which should be suitable for most users. No matter which version you choose, ZoneAlarm walks you through the opening configuration with a no-brains-necessary wizard that asks for a few simple choices. After 30 days, if you're still not inclined to pay $50 to purchase ZoneAlarm Pro, the product reverts to ZoneAlarm 4.5 without the need to reinstall-nor do you see any grayed-out features. Unlike earlier editions, ZoneAlarm Pro 4.5 now offers you a choice: either download the free version of ZoneAlarm 4.5 and never be bothered again about purchasing the product or try ZoneAlarm Pro for a free 30-day trial. Download the 4MB ZoneAlarm Pro 4.5, and within five minutes, you can have your guard up. Looking for your first firewall? The always-free ZoneAlarm 4.5 does the trick, but only if you already have antivirus software installed. If you're already using ZoneAlarm Pro, upgrade only if you want access to the expert rules. Not all is rosy, however: there's still no way to call the ZoneAlarm help desk. Plus, ZoneAlarm Pro 4.5 remains so easy to use that even a novice can manage it. This firewall- cum-security suite-it features the firewall, plus a few privacy tools and a pop-up ad killer, but no antivirus app-now sports expert-style rules that let advanced users fine-tune Internet access privileges, an outbound mail monitor that watches for suspicious activity that could indicate a worm, and a way to report Web intruders.
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