A common accurence lately when I'm on the internet is someone trying to gain access to my computer port(s). Firewall software (Norton and zone alarm) is installed, and these computers share and internet connection via a router. So far this annoyance has not posed any major problems, viruses or computer malfunctions. But, there are times when Outlook has not been able to mail out because an outgoing port is tied up and an error message pops up to say try again later. How serious should I take this intrusion/interruption and what’s an appropriate solution? There's no sense of fear from my firewalls messages, but I'm not sure if I'm reading these correctly. Is this where a hardware firewall or software that hides my computers from hackers helps?

Thanks in advance

Hi Lyons,
ZoneAlarm blocks all the unauthorized incoming/outgoing traffic, and (in theory) can let the open ports hidden (not answering to incoming "pings"). The problem is that Windows XP uses some own ports and let them "visible" to anyone who tries to ping them.

You may take a look here to see how vulnerable your system is and what you can do to protect it: https://www.grc.com/x/ne.dll?bh0bkyd2

Chris

Thanks Chris!

Will be checking your recommended site out. Hopefully I can get more info that will help with my comfort level.

You are welcome.

The only port which is not stealth on my system is the SSH port #22 (worse, it's open). Some people out there thinks it must remain open and that it's safe to let it as it, but others, including me, thinks it must remain closed. I couldn't find why it remains open or which service/program may use it (there is no incoming or outgoing traffic through it though).

It's for "remote login protocol", but I disabled any remote access services and it is still open. Couldn't find a way to close it, although it can be rerouted to a fake IP so any incoming traffic will finish on a dead end.

Chris

Hi,

how can I check my ports and how to shut them if necessary?

I'm running Windows XP H.E. and have Bit Defender 9 suite installed(firewall,AV,spam control and so on).

regards,

The Bard

Hi The Bard, welcome to SAF

Check out the link I posted above, (post #2). Click proceed and check your ports and other security stuff.

Chris

Chris I just ran all the scans again and I am happy to report all is secure. But I would suggest you contact Steves support and get that open port closed. Sounds to me you done did all you can so get the other pros help. IMHO that is. Good Luck.