as an aside... anyone on this site should really not be using software firewalls, as they impact performance. instead, you should be using a hardware firewall. far less trouble, and more reliable. the packets coming from the net attempting to infiltrate your system don't even hit your IP stack, therefore protecting you.

anti-virus is a different problem and is not required while you are in game. anti-virus only matters when you are surfing the net, downloading software, or getting email (same as downloading software)

personally, i've been swearing by netgear equipment for years. currently, i have a wireless firewall for my external firewall (for my neighbors to use.. encrypted psk of course. wep == crackable) and my internal firewall (only i have access there). both are switches and both use nat.

external: WGT624
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage....=1061127609500

internal: FVS318
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage....=1051384470122