Since downloading Zone Alarm, i have noticed that nearly all my programs try to connect to their main server when activated! Why does this happen??

Im talking about MS word, Excel, and other programs like Dreamweaver etc etc.

im real curious!

2 main reasons:

1) activation purposes and/or registration
2) checking for updates

presumably internet access is not mandatory since most of the time PCs arent always connected to the Net right?

So would i be safe just blocking it?

Well, it's safe to block update checks, but I don't see a point to bother with it. Some other programs need to verify registration online as well. Other than that, you can block it all, but it's pointless if you ask me.

It additionally will check for known bootlegged versions.
If your copy is legit theres no need to block it, like otheres have stated its generally to check for updates and registration ie authenticity

|Drew|