Windows Firewall

FirewallSoftware or hardware that can help protects a computer from hackers or malicious software. A firewall helps prevent malicious software (such as worms) from gaining access to a computer through a network or over the Internet, and helps prevent a computer from sending malicious software to other computers. | | Show all
Firewall: frequently asked questions
Here are answers to some common questions about firewalls. What is a firewall?
A firewall is software or hardware that checks information coming from the Internet or a network, and then either blocks it or allows it to pass through to your computer, depending on your firewall settings. Why do I need a firewall?
A firewall can help prevent hackers or malicious software (such as worms) from gaining access to your computer through a network or the Internet. A firewall can also help stop your computer from sending malicious software to other computers.
Even if you think there is nothing on your computer that would interest anyone, a worm could completely disable your computer, or someone could use your computer to help spread worms or viruses to other computers without your knowledge. What does "allowing a program through the firewall" mean?
Allowing a program through the firewall, sometimes called unblocking, is when you create an exception to enable a particular program to send information back and forth through the firewall. You can also allow a program through the firewall by opening one or more ports. For more information, see Allow a program to communicate through Windows Firewall. What are the recommended settings for Windows Firewall?
We recommend the default firewall settings: * The firewall is on. * The firewall is on for all network locations (Home or work, Public place, or Domain). * The firewall is on for all network connections. * The firewall is blocking inbound connections that do not match an exception. How can I be sure that Windows Firewall is on?
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