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Chapter 5: Configuring the Router
The Security Tab - Firewall
Broadband Router with 2 Phone Ports
The Security Tab - Firewall
When you click the Security tab, you will see the Firewall screen. The Router’s firewall enhances the security of
your network. You can also enable a variety of filters to further protect your network and block anonymous
Internet requests.

Firewall

The firewall uses Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) to check the incoming data transmissions before allowing them
to enter your network. To enhance the security of your network, this feature is enabled by default and cannot be
disabled.

Additional Filters

Filter Proxy. Use of WAN proxy servers may compromise the Router’s security. If you deny proxy, you will block
access to any WAN proxy servers. Click the checkbox to enable proxy filtering.
Filter Cookies. A cookie is data stored on your PC and used by Internet sites when you interact with them. Click
the checkbox to enable cookie filtering.
Filter Java Applets. Java is a programming language for websites. If you deny Java Applets, you run the risk of
not having access to Internet sites created using this programming language. Click the checkbox to enable Java
Applet filtering.
Filter ActiveX. ActiveX is a programming language for websites. If you deny ActiveX, you run the risk of not
having access to Internet sites created using this programming language. Click the checkbox to enable ActiveX
filtering.
Filter Multicast. Multicasting allows for multiple transmissions to specific recipients at the same time. If
multicasting is permitted, then the Router will allow IP multicast packets to be forwarded to the appropriate
computers. Click the checkbox to enable multicast filtering.

Block WAN Requests

Block Anonymous Internet Requests. This keeps your network from being “pinged” or detected and reinforces
your network security by hiding your network ports, so it is more difficult for intruders to work their way into your
network. Click the checkbox to block anonymous Internet requests. This feature is enabled by default.
When you have finished making changes to this screen, click the Save Settings button to save the changes, or
click the Cancel Changes button to undo your changes. For help information, click Help.
Figure 5-10: Security Tab - Firewall
spi (stateful packet inspection) firewall: A
technology that inspects incoming packets of
information before allowing them to enter the
network