Microsoft has provided a firewall with Windows for many years and Windows 10 is no exception. It is probably turned on and working to protect your computer, but it would be unwise to assume this.
You should check the status of Windows Firewall to make sure that your computer is protected against hackers, malicious computers and malware.
Check the state of Windows Firewall
1 Open the Control Panel
Right click the Start button and select Control Panel.
2 Find Windows Firewall
Click View by on the right and set it to small icons if it is not already set. Find and click the Windows Firewall icon.
Another way to open Windows Firewall is to click in the search box in the taskbar and type in ‘Windows Firewall‘. Among the search results is Windows Firewall (Control panel). Click it.
3 Check the status
If you see green bars and green shields with ticks, it means everything is OK. When Windows Firewall is turned on your computer is protected against hackers and malware that might try to gain access to your computer.
Windows Firewall has two modes - Private networks and Guest or public networks. You will be connected to one, not both and selection works automatically.
Private networks: Settings used at home or work. The firewall rules are relaxed a bit to enable you to connect to other computers, printers, and devices, share files, music and videos. The network is probably encrypted and requires a password to connect, so it is a safer environment.
Guest or public networks: Used elsewhere, such as coffee shops, airports, hotels and so on when you are out with a laptop. The rules are tighter to prevent unknown computers and devices from connecting and to prevent your computer from sharing files or information.
Turn Windows Firewall on/off
4 Turn on Windows Firewall
If Windows Firewall is turned off or is incorrectly set then there are vertical red bars and red shields with crosses. There is a button near the top on the right that says Use recommended settings. Clicking that is a quick way to turn on the firewall’s protection.
Alternatively, click the link on the left (in the previous screenshot), Turn Windows Firewall on or off. Then select the option to Turn on Windows Firewall for both private and public networks.
Is Windows Firewall turned off?
If Windows Firewall is turned off, don’t panic there may be a good reason. For example, alternative security software may contain its own firewall. Only one firewall should be active, so if there is a firewall elsewhere then Windows Firewall can be turned off.
Some security software, such as internet security suites, turn off Windows Firewall when they are installed and turn it back on when they are uninstalled, but you should still check.
Make sure the two Notify me when… boxes are ticked. This ensures that firewall problems are brought to your attention.
Next: Allow or block programs and set permissions
Previous: Introduction to Windows Firewall
Course Contents: Windows 10 security Guide
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