Firewall software

Anyone here think that this is a good idea? i dont have the resources or the need for a router so i was wondering if these are effective. i have used ZoneAlarm and i have BlackICE, but i have seen ZoneAlarm as more of an annoyance than anything. i use dial up and win98se and win2k and i have a network set up in my house, which i dont need any protection from. i only need protection from outside sources. im just looking for other peoples opinion.
thanks
ToMMy

[rcastillo]

For dial-up, you don't need a firewall, unless you want to protect your computer from someone in your house, which you say you don't. BTW, I use ZoneAlarm and it works great.
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rc

[Jeffbx]

You are at just as much risk on a dial-up line as a broadband line when you're connected. I would recommend just keeping BlackIce on the PC with the dial-up line, and keep it deactivated when you're off line.