Vista Tutorial - Windows Firewall - On or Off

Information

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. For more information, see: Windows Help and How-to: Windows Firewall

NOTE

Services needed by Windows Firewall: (See: How to Disable or Enable Vista Services With a Advice Guide) Windows Firewall (Started, Automatic) Base Filtering Engine (Started, Automatic)

WARNING

Always make sure that you have Windows Firewall or another firewall program running to help protect your computer while on the internet.

• How to Add or Delete an Exception in Windows Firewall in Vista
• How to Use Windows Firewall With Advanced Security in Vista
• How to Disable or Enable the Security Center Alert Warning Notification in Vista
• How to Turn Windows Features On or Off in Vista
• How to Create a Turn Windows Firewall On or Off Shortcut in Vista

Setting	Description
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).
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 worms).

1. Open the Control Panel. (Classic View)

2. Click on the Click to Play button in the video below.