Router Help

[nightowl2003]

Hi,

I am new to some networking hardware and wondered if you could help me with the following please.

I have windows 2000 server and have an Adsl/router connected to a small network of 4 pc's. the router is setup as a DHCP server so the clients get IP's automatically, my main question is am i safe from hackers on the net with using a router, is there a special way of setting this up or is it setup ok as default. i assigned a static IP in the router configuration.

Do i have to set NAT up in the router??

How do i open special ports like ICQ file transfers??

Is this done in the router configuration??

Help most appriciated.

Thnakyou....

 

[keithmyers]

No, you are not safe using just a router. You need a firewall in order to protect yourself from malicous activity. You would also use the firewall to control access to certain ports.

-Keith-

 

[cbbxxxd]

i agree with keith, you should get a software or hardware firewall...i would suggest zonealarm, you could download the trail version on download.com...

 

[dredoggg]

if your IPs are all 192.168.x.x then you are NATed, and are safer than without the router. Pretty much no one will get in without you allowing them in. ANything can go out though.

Heck, I'd bet you are safe enough. You *could* get a true firewall device (or software) but with 4 PCs that is probably overkill.

For a quick test to see how good or bad you are, go to grc.com, and do the ShieldsUp Test that he's got there.
Or search for other port scan tests.
OR try :

http://www.securitylogics.com/portscan.adp

Now, excuse me while I put on my asbestos suit to protect from the flames.