Motorola cable modem safe enough or do I need router?

[AndyB404]

In my 4 years of working with computers, I have never had the chance to work on broadband or networking of any kind. This Friday will change all that. I am going to help a customer get Comcast Cable internet. I am going to Best Buy to get the modem and self installation kit. Now he only has 1 PC. I would like to know if the Motorola modem that comes with the self install kit has built in firewall or do I need to get a router for that? I wanna make sure he is safe but didnt want to buy equipment he didn't need. Thanks.

[bailey]

only a router is a hardware firewall, I would recommend getting it.

[glc]

The modem is not a firewall. If you do not get a router, you need a good software firewall - the builtin XP firewall is "adequate". He does not "need" a router unless he wants to hook up additional PC's to the Internet and use file and print sharing.

The XP firewall does not monitor for outbound connections - but neither does a router.

[AndyB404]

Ok. I know a router would be the best thing in terms of a firewall for broadband but he doesn't want to spend more than he already is for now. I take it Sygate Firewall or ZA will do? Any sites that show how to setup either of these firewalls with cable internet? What is a good router to get? I know he will never go wireless in his home so it doesn't have to be wireless router. Thanks.

[Panama Red]

Here's a nice deal on a good wired router.

http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProduc...127-013&depa=0

[lpc300]

Staples also has a Netgear router on sale for $9.44 after rebate.

[AndyB404]

Thanks Panama. That looks like a great router. The price is a lot better than those Linksys I was looking at. It also looks like a lot of people were very happy with this router in the reviews for this router. Thanks again.