Would you guys recommend the on-line security checkers like Shields up?

It might help newbies...(like me) ... realize where they stand.

The active nature of the test gives us an experience that just installing software doesn't.

I just recently did the basics... activated the firewall in the router and on my machine.
Joined antionline...heard about blaster here first.
Downloaded e-books and papers to read up on security.

But I didn't feel very active until I stealthed port 113 on my router (a small step, I know).

In addition to all the rest, or before the rest. It could spur the timid to action.