I only use a dial-up connection for my internet work.

I'm online about an hour each day.

Is a firewall a necessary piece of protection in my case? I have heard differing views on the subject, some claiming that it is only really necessary if you have DSL or cable internet hook-ups, and others disagreeing.

James: If you are on a dialup connection, your security risk is much less because you are only "on" a network when you are dialed in. In that case I think a software firewall such as the one that comes with Windows would be sufficient.

If you don't have Windows, go to pcmag.com, search for free firewalls and take their advice.

I think you want some kind of firewall because it helps to keep out people who are trying to enter your machine through the Net.