Should I use the merit computer network peerblock to secure my personal computer?
Should I be using a peer block to secure my computer or is there a better way to accomplish the same task?
My curiosity about peer blocks came from my research on the security of my computer. I saw peerblock as a great way to control the connections coming into my computer. I found plenty of block lists and also went as far as creating a white list. Not only have I seen improvements in CPU usage but peerblock is telling me it's blocking some pretty suspicious IPs. Some IP address names that come up on peer blocks are "private use networks' ', "bogon", and sometimes some random companies. I recently added another list and one ip that has frightened me which I will not disclose has popped up a few times. This is a strictly get work done computer where I also store personal pictures and videos. With the recent development of computers being hacked and set for random or other malicious situations, security is always on my mind.
What do all these blocked IPs mean? Am i securing my computer? Is there a better way to secure my computer? Should i be using peerblock? Can peer block protect me from malware or being hacked? Provided that i white list connections that update software, am i hurting myself by using it?
This would not increase your security in a dramatic way. The merit computer network peerblock was not intended to protect your computer from attack, only attempt to block as they claim "known bad guys" in p2p networks. They do not market the technology as a way to control or supplement firewall deny rules. Rotating or acquiring new IP addresses, proxying traffic, or spoofing IP addresses is low effort. Playing "whack a mole" with blocking IP addresses is not normally considered an efficient way to secure a host or network.
Try these in SuperUser:
How to secure Windows 7 computer
How to properly secure Linux computer
Secure Mac OSX purchased from a stranger