Windows FirewallA firewall is a device that protects a computer from some types of malicious network activity. Firewalls restrict certain types of network traffic; for example, blocking attempts to read files on your hard drive. Firewalls may also keep logs of network activity that might be useful if someone attempts to break into your computer. A firewall should be used to protect any computer connected directly to the Internet or any other public or untrusted network.
Use the following steps to open Windows Firewall.
- From the Windows Vista default Start menu, click Control Panel.
- In Control Panel, click Security.
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- In the Control Panel Security window, click Windows Firewall.
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- In the Windows Firewall window, click Change Settings.
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- In the User Account Control dialog box, click Continue.
On the graphic, click the hyperlinks to move through the various screens of the Windows Firewall interface.
Understanding Windows Firewall settings
Turn Windows Firewall on or off
Open a port in Windows Firewall
Firewall Frequently Asked Questions
