software v.s hardware firewall

hardware

advantage
1.it protect your whole network
2.malicious software can't disable it
3.cheaper than some software firewall

disadvantage
1. malware can pentrate your network and attempt to connect to the internet

software

advanage
1. there are firewall that are under $50 or free
2.easy to configure
3.you are in control in which application are allow to connect to the internet
disadvantage
1. can't be configured to mask your IP address. Instead, they close unused ports and monitor traffic to and from open ports
2.You must purchase a separate copy for each computer

experts recommend both types of firewall to protect your computers and network.