Where Knowledge Rules

How to enable or disable the Windows XP firewall

The actual purpose of a firewall is to protect your computer from outside sources being able to connect to your computer. The firewall acts as a blocker to foreign parties trying to enter your computer via the internet or network unless you have specifically enabled them to, by creating a exception for them.

The steps below will show you how to easily turn on and off your computer firewall and create exceptions for any computers you would like to be able to access your computer.

Instructions

Step 1

Turning on your firewall

To turn on (Enable) your firewall click on the the Start icon, usually found at the bottom left-hand side of your desktop interface.

Step 2

Run

Locate the word Run and click on it. Then type firewall.cpl into the box and click Ok.

Step 3

General Tab

You will now be in the Firewall Window and should be on the General Tab (located at the top of the window). The general tab is where you have the option to turn on or turn off your firewall. Click in the little circle of the option you require. Click Ok and you are finished.

Read the next step only if you need to make exceptions for certain computers or software to enable them access to your computer.

Step 4

Exceptions

To make an exception to allow a certain computer or software access to your computer click on the Exceptions Tab located and the top of the window. There you can choose programs, delete programs or add programs or ports.

Turn On Windows Firewall Protection (On/Off)

Check to see if your computer is running Windows Firewall Protection or not! Watch the "crystal clear" version of this video tutorial, and many more just like this one at mytrainingcenter.com.

Things Needed

A computer set to the desktop interface

Tips & Warnings

It is a good idea to keep the firewall enabled at all times even if you have anti-virus software on your computer.

The windows firewall will not be a total protection against computer viruses but it does help and it does not slow down your computer at all.

It is a good idea to create a system restore point before changing or adding any Exceptions to the firewall. You can create another restore point after you have made your changes provided your computer is working how you expect it to.

Firewall Poll

Do you use the Windows firewall or another type of firewall?

	Yes, I use the Windows generic firewall
	No, I use another type of firewall

Flag Inappropriate Content

Dr S Guru
Helium member since Apr 08, 09
Number of Guides: 9

+ Post your Question|> See All Q&A

Other How-To's by this Author

Related Helium Articles

An overview of the Windows XP Firewall

by Greg Schwartz

Introduced as part of Service Pack 2, the Windows Firewall is a free packet filtering firewall for Windows XP users. Windows Firewall replaces the previous Internet Connection Firewall. It is simple to run and can easily be configured to... More>

How to check Windows firewall settings

by David Gunter

Everyday new pieces of malware and spyware are unleashed on the web, looking for unprotected users to infect. Fortunately, there are many different programs that can stop these infections in their tracks. One of the best tools you can use for combat... More>

How to create exceptions in Windows Vista's firewall

by John Hewitt

Using Windows Vista firewall is not the top choice of many computer users. In fact they often download a different firewall and then disable the Windows Vista firewall completely. One of the main reasons for not using Windows Vista firewall is that ... More>

Was this How-To Guide helpful?