Three Security questions in settings for this router

[expertradioflyerdriver]

I am using an old wired Linksys BEFSR41 V3 Router to increase my security. I looked up my cable modem and it is not a router nor does it contain a firewall. I am using PC Tools Firewall Plus free firewall software on my computer because it was rated in the top three. I was told that a router increases my security because it has an “additional firewall”.

Three Security questions in settings for this router:

1. Is it necessary to change the user name and password from default?

Settings under: Security > Filter > Default settings >
Filter Multicast: Disabled
Filter Internet NAT Redirection: Disabled
2. Would the security benefits of enabling these two settings sufficiently outweigh the negative consequences (if any) that would result?

Settings under: Security > VPN Passthrough
Default settings IPSec Passthrough: Enabled --&-- PPTP Passthrough: Enabled
PPPoE Passthrough: Disabled
3. Would the security benefits of disabling IPSec Passthrough & PPTP Passthrough sufficiently outweigh the negative consequences (if any) that would result?

I do not “Host” anything. I do not use a “VPN” that I know of. I just use my computer to email and traveling the web and data stream for my investment software. That is it, very basic internet usage.

Background info: Desktop AMD 4400+ 64X2 4GB memory 320GB HD Acer (AM3100-U3201A) purchased new February 2008 -- 32-bit MS Vista Home Premium SP2 -- MS auto updates on. Comcast ISP 12mbps service W\ Motorola SURFboard SB5101 Cable Modem.

Thanks for the help.

Bob

 

[thiggins]

I am using an old wired Linksys BEFSR41 V3 Router to increase my security. I looked up my cable modem and it is not a router nor does it contain a firewall. I am using PC Tools Firewall Plus free firewall software on my computer because it was rated in the top three. I was told that a router increases my security because it has an “additional firewall”.

All consumer routers provide essentially the same level of security because all use the same type of simple firewall that is part of the mechanism that shares your single Internet connection among multiple computers.

1. Is it necessary to change the user name and password from default?

Settings under: Security > Filter > Default settings >
Filter Multicast: Disabled
Filter Internet NAT Redirection: Disabled

Yes. I recommend changing the password. This is just good security practice.

2. Would the security benefits of enabling these two settings sufficiently outweigh the negative consequences (if any) that would result?

Settings under: Security > VPN Passthrough
Default settings IPSec Passthrough: Enabled --&-- PPTP Passthrough: Enabled
PPPoE Passthrough: Disabled

These settings make no difference in security. They are just there if you need to run VPN connections from any LAN clients.

3. Would the security benefits of disabling IPSec Passthrough & PPTP Passthrough sufficiently outweigh the negative consequences (if any) that would result?

I do not “Host” anything. I do not use a “VPN” that I know of. I just use my computer to email and traveling the web and data stream for my investment software. That is it, very basic internet usage.

See answer to #2.

Remember that a router firewall does not protect against malware, viruses, etc. You need to run anti-virus software on your computers and keep it updated as well as practice good Internet hygiene.

 

[expertradioflyerdriver]

Thank you so much for your help. You answered my questions
Bob