Afraid that website you just visited might harbor malware of some kind?  Fear not, with a new product from ZoneAlarm two of the most popular browsers become immune to almost any type of attack.

ZoneAlarm Forcefield has just been released in beta form for both Windows XP and Vista.  When Forcefield is running your browser is placed in a “sandbox” (an isolated part of the system that has no direct access to critical files), all files downloaded are scanned for known spyware signatures, websites are checked for authenticity through a database (much like SiteAdvisor) and if you so choose can activate private browsing mode.

In private browsing mode, the same features apply but no traces of your activity online will be stored anywhere on the computer.  After Forcefield is installed, it will start automatically with Windows and run within either an IE or Firefox session.  Spyware will be blocked automatically and downloads will be scanned.

While it is faster than something like McAfee it should only be used as a first line of defense, a real security suite is still necessary.  Forcefield just adds another layer of protection and right now it is being offered as a free download.

I also recommend the use of OpenDNS (when possible) and McAfee Site Advisor in addition to Forcefield, all of these tools should be used in addition to a security suite (free or paid).

Note browsers that are considered Firefox variants such as Netscape 9 will not be protected by Forcefield.

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Entry was posted on Wednesday, September 26th, 2007 at 11:25 am under Microsoft, Security, Tips, Vista.  Print This Post

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