How to add an exception to Windows Firewall

What is a Firewall?

A firewall is software or hardware that either allows or prevents information from the internet to go to your computer. A firewall is a safety feature to your computer so that you have protection against intruders or hackers trying to spread virus or simply stealing your personal information.

What is Windows Firewall?

Windows Firewall is a software program as part of Microsoft Windows whose purpose is to block incoming network connections from the internet so that they can not pass through or communicate with your computer. It will protect your computer from virus, spywares, worms, and other malicious programs by denying them to connect to your computer. According to your preference settings you can set the level of protection by adjusting from the menu. Windows Firewall is automatically installed if you install Windows. Windows Firewall is ON by default. It is recommended to Always let Windows Firewall ON for maximum protection. In Windows Firewall, you can either block or unblock programs. You can also block or unblock specific ports. However, if you want trusted programs or software to access your computer, you need to Allow them, so you need to Add an exception in Windows Firewall.

How to add an exception to Windows Firewall:

1. Click Start button.

2. Click Control Panel.

3. Double click Windows Firewall.

4. Click Exceptions. Note that the Programs and Services with a check mark means they are Allowed by Windows Firewall.

5. To add a program, click Add a Program, Browse or Select the program and click Ok. To add a port, click Add a Port, type the port Name, enter the Port Number, select TCP or UDP, and press OK. A program exception is more secure than a port exception.

6. To enable Windows Firewall to your Local Area Connection, Wireless Network Connection, or 1394 Connection, just click on Advanced and put a checkmark on these Network Connections.