After having my system compromised I am trying to ensure that all aspects of my home set up is secure. I have raised a couple of questions in other forums on this site to gain confidence in the pc side of my network but my question here, and I hope it is the correct forum, is regarding router security.
I have a simple home network with 2 pcs (Norton AV, firewall etc) connected via an OfficeConnect ISDN Lan modem.
Firstly please feel to correct any of the assumptions I have made but am of limited knowledge but learning hopefully.
The router is set up so that any incoming scans are sent to a default non existing port. I think that this is NAT anyway I dont get a lot of scans being picked up by my pc firewall. so assume that this router firewalling is doing its job.
The router however does not have however a physical firewall.
My questions though is can someone gain access to the router - how secure is it? And if they did wont they have total control over my network. Is this possible?
The router has remote access facility - does this pose a risk? I have changed the passwod from the default
Many thanks for any advice you can give me on this
Much appreciated

entered in error

It is not likely anyone can access your router unless you provide the password.

NAT is, for all practical purposes, your "physical" that is "hardware based" firewall. Routers do not normally have firewalls, they are the firewalls.

You said you have

so can I assume you mean "Norton Internet Security"? If so, then that is your "software based" firewall. If so, it will work to block those items you let past your router and often more importantly, it will block stuff already on your PC trying to "call home" withough your permission.

Just keep your signature files updated.

If you do not mean Norton Internet Securtiy, then stop what you are doing and get a software firewall NOW - I like ZoneAlarm - it is one of the best and it is FREE!

I also use SpyBot S&D and AdAware (in that order) - together, they can't be beat for catching malware on your system dumped by cookies etc. And they are FREE. Again, update your sig files before use.

Then of course, self discipline it paramount - don't open attachments unless you are 200 percent certain they are clean - best to just delete. If necessary, save attach to desktop (without opening!) and scan again with Norton.

Of course Mailwasher will let you manage your mail ON THE SERVER before it comes close to your PC - a significant advantage over other spam fighters.

_________________
Bill, AFE7Ret
Freedom is NOT Free!