Windows 7: Firewall selection help wanted and browser plug in protection wanted

Where can i learn which firewall to select as an install software and what its features are doing.

Companies have reviews and rankings but i don't see a place to learn what each feature is providing me so i can't find satisfaction and safety after the install.

I'll still lack piece of mind. Even if i install something to protect me from my fears, if i don't know it i still can't sleep at night. Even if safe.

I'd like to protect my files. If there is an intrusion and files leave my computer though a browser add on or other means I'd like for whats stolen to be encrypted. I think a listening port is a port that allows incoming and out going traffic on my computer. I'd like any files encrypted.


When adding a browser add on or updating a software i want protection from an employee of say Java or Adobe. If they steal my files or file names I'd like all out going files to be encrypted automatically.

Browser add ons seem to be an easy way to target people. Anyone who can create something cool probably has the smarts to be malicious. I was down to adblock plus then netflix party was released. Now I'm exposed again. Create a url, send it to friends, watch what you are watching with those that follow the url and you can enjoy a chat box with them. Now I'm exposed to the developer and their agenda.