| #684 - AlphaShield Pro Hardware Firewall |
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| Written by Rodney Reynolds | ||||||||
| Monday, 12 June 2006 | ||||||||
Page 4 of 6 A closer look: This product comes in two different versions: AlphaShield Home (without Panda software) and the AlphaShield Pro (with Panda software). Please note, there is no hardware difference between these two versions. The Pro version is more expensive because it includes the Panda Platinum 2006 Edition Software. The Pro version is recommended for most because this software includes; Antispyware, Personal firewall, Privacy control, Blocking of intruders, Antiphishing, Antispam, and Web content filtering. This software will facilitate the hardware firewall for added protection by removing any existing threats. At the front of this product is a connect (blue) and disconnect (grey) button. This is known as the AlphaGAP. This technology allows the user to immediately and easily connect or disconnect from the internet. 
 Also at the front are three LEDs. The two on the outside are green and indicate internet activity. The center one shows whether you are connected (green LED) or disconnected (red LED) from the Internet.  All the connections are at the back; refer to the picture below. At the left is the main internet connection from the Cable or DSL internet service. Next to that is the Auxiliary connection which is outside the AlphaShield's security features. This port is excellent for testing purposes, VOIP (Voice Over IP) or any connection that doesn't require any hardware firewall. At the very right is the power connection and to the left of that is the PC connection.  In the center is the mode selector. It has three modes; Manual, Auto, and Lock. Each mode will provide a different level of security and convenience. The manual mode retains the current IP address and has an inactivity and 15 minute logical disconnect timer. A disconnect timer automatically disconnects the internet after 15 minutes. The lock mode may release the current IP address and has an inactivity and 15 minute physical disconnect timer. The auto mode is recommended for most. It retains the current IP address but doesn't have a disconnect timer. No matter what mode you are using, it's recommended to physically disconnect once you have completed Internet or Network activity.  At the back is the serial number and four rubber feet.  |
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