I have a DSL connection and am leaving my computer on most of the time. The DSL on this computer is new and so is Zone Alarm (free version). I called and asked the DSL provider if I could shut off DSL and still keep my computer on while not in use. The specialist replied that these days the hardware firewall included with the modem (2Wire 1000HW) was almost impossible to penetrate and there was no real easy way to do this. He went so far as to imply that I might cause problems if I tried to do this.
I noticed the lock icon in Zone Alarm which I previously understood was for emergency use only. Then, in checking out Zone Alarm a little closer, I noticed an area where ZA said that one could engage the internet lock if one intended to be away for the computer for extended periods. I don't really want to get into a hassle here; but, if additional protection is possible, why not engage the internet lock? Will it cause complications (I have the default settings set to Medium)? After clicking on lock will I lose the DSL connection? Anyway, would anyone with experience in this area be so kind as to enlighten me a bit. Thank you for any advice!