Is there anyway that I can protect my IP address, so no one can probe it? For example, when you post a message here, your IP address is being detected by this site even with a firewall.

here we go, in nice simple terms, your ip address is needed to transfer data across the internet (like your postal address, it makes sure it gets to the right place). It is posible to "protect" your ip address by using a proxy (you can google it), but really: unless you are uber-paranoid/doing somthing really bad, you don't need to worry. Running a firewall of some type is a good start (some are better then others, ie smoothwall is better then Zonealarm). An nat is also good idea when/if you start playing around with personal networks. For more on security try google or neworder.box.sk the current story is a repost on how to harden a 'dose box

For the best proxy protection, you can use a utility called MultiProxy that constantly hands off your requests through hundreds of different proxies. That combined with 2 or 3 good firewalls (to protect against firewall shutdown attemps, ie SubSeven infections) and a good virus checker or two (with good heuristics engines) should make your 'net usage pretty damn safe. Of course, most people dont even need any such stuff...only a few even need one firewall.

When I need to surf anonymously.. I use multi-proxy. It is good and there is always an updated list of anonymous servers available. However.. just keep in mind.. some of the servers may be set up by hackers.. attempting to gain your passwords and user account information. Tank863

Hackers?! OK.... You probably have read my situation in XP section allready about how my friend sent out defamatory emails to people slandering someone else that had MSN trace down the IP. Would it be good advice to tell the friend to get Multi-Proxy or would it be too late? PS- please no lectures! Its a friend in need and i will make damn sure they never do it again !!!!