What Does "Block Port Scans" Actually Do?

Utterly Disillusioned

I have updated every year since 2012.

In Total Security 2017 Firewall, there is a setting to block port scans in the network.

What does this actually do, what are the pros and cons, should I enable or disable it?

I usually have it on but have had some problems recently.

 

Even though it is always on, it has not blocked a port scan since forever.

 

P.S. I have a single desk top PC, no home network, no fancy pants 'phone and connect to the net via a hi-speed usb broadband dongle. But I don't want anyone hacking in remotely.

Win7 Home Premium 64 bit

 

Alternator

Hello Utterly Disillusioned. 


I think that block port scans in network, blocks only port scans within local network.

Your router should have a firewall that blocks port-scans coming from the internet.


In environment that you described it is not so strange that it has not blocked port scan since forever...

If your router don`t have wi-fi ap (or you are in rural area) you should be fine with turning it off.