Windows Firewall

Windows Firewall

                

                                             

             Windows Firewall is a built-in, host-based  firewall that is included in Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Windows XP with Service Pack 2 and later, and Windows Server 2003 with Service Pack 1 and later. Windows Firewall drops incoming traffic that does not correspond to either traffic sent in response to a request of the computer (solicited traffic) or unsolicited traffic that has been specified as allowed (excepted traffic). Windows Firewall helps provide protection from malicious users and programs that rely on unsolicited incoming traffic to attack computers. In Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008, Windows Firewall can also drop outgoing traffic and is configured using the Windows Firewall with Advanced Security snap-in, which integrates rules for both firewall behavior and traffic protection with Internet Protocol security (IPsec). You can set Firewall to ON, OFF or Block all incoming connections. 

Steps to open Windows Firewall settings.

1.       Open Control Panel.

2.       Click on Security.

3.       Click on Windows Firewall.    

On (recommended)

                               

                            This setting is selected by default. When Windows Firewall is On, most programs are blocked from communicating through the firewall. If you want to unblock a program, you can add it to the Exceptions list (on the Exceptions tab). For example, you might not be able to send photos in an instant message until you add the instant messaging program to the Exceptions list.

Block all incoming connections

                          

           This setting blocks all unsolicited attempts to connect to your computer. Use this setting when you need maximum protection for your computer, such as when you connect to a public network in a hotel or airport, or when a computer worm is spreading over the Internet. With this setting, you are not notified when Windows Firewall blocks programs, and programs on the Exceptions list are ignored.

When you select Block all incoming connections, you can still view most webpages, send and receive e‑mail, and send and receive instant messages.

Off (not recommended)

                        

            Avoid using this setting unless you have another firewall running on your computer. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your computer (and your network, if you have one) more vulnerable to damage from hackers and malicious software (such as Virus, Worms and Trojans).