Review Eset Smart Security 4.2: PC Security suite

In addition to standard profiles, we can now add numerous custom profiles
With the multiple firewall configuration profiles each user is able to control how the ESET Smart Security firewall will behave for them. The user is therefore able to adapt the rules according to their uses (video games, Internet browsing, IRC, Newsgroups…). The authentication zone clearly informs the user of their current status, identifying the network on which they are attempting to connect and allowing them to take the most appropriate action. This could be, for example, changing the firewall profile currently in use, blocking either partially or fully communication with this zone, or even monitoring all communication taking place on the data link layer so as to block attacks which may otherwise be undetected.

IPV6 rules and the authentication of changes made to signed applications
IPv6 is now also supported. Thanks to this function, the firewall will display the IPv6 addresses and allow the user to create rules adapted to these addresses. The firewall will also monitor the executable files being run, monitoring any changes being made to these *.exe files. It is also possible to allow signed applications to be changed by individually adding each of these applications to the control list (Internet browser, instant messaging client, iTunes updates…). When a user is browsing on the internet or downloading their emails, they will now be protected by the file analysis integrated into the HTTP and POP3 protocols.

A more alert intrusion detection and adapted filtering
The intrusion detection system is even more alert than before. It now has the capability of recognising the communication passing over the network and various attacks, automatically blocking all communication if necessary. The “interactive” filtering mode is based on personal rules, while others will be learnt automatically (with or without exceptions). This means that the user or administrator can choose what actions the firewall should take through a defined rule, or allow the program to react automatically. By replacing the Windows firewall (disabled), Eset Smart Security Firewall also integrates into the Windows Security Centre which monitors the computers security status (system updates, protection, etc).