>i am planning to set up a packet filter in linux using iptables.
> * will hacking iptables really provide an efficient packet filter?
You've got to be kidding me.
Yes.
> if
> yes in what sense?
in the sense that it completely and efficiently filters all packets.
> * plz guide me with the right resource for hacking iptables.
www.google.com
search on appropriate keywords.
don't post questions until you've taken a little time to read the easily
accessible information related to your question. looks like you just want
us to do all your easy work.