That's the first thing hubby noticed after we aquired DSL and then cable. We have an expensive hardware firewall, not only for potential personal ID theft but hubby works from home a lot, and so it's kind of a must-have precaution.
I used to think a firewall wasn't very important depending on how you use the net and all that...I don't anymore. They won't neccesarily protect you from your own foolishness or 100%, but I'm glad it's there.