How to enable or disable the Microsoft Windows Firewall effectively

David Darlington

Dec 16, 2024 • Filed to: Windows Computer Solutions • Proven solutions

Security as well as safety is one of the most important functions in the world of windows. The online environment is never secure if proper measurements are not taken. From antivirus to anti-malware there are tens of thousands of programs. In case the user is not aware of the programs then the online presence is always in danger. It is also one of the most important functionalities that ensure that the user never gets into trouble. Windows firewall is a function that provides data filtration. It filters all the malicious data as well as suspicious packets that could harm the system. However, in some cases this firewall blocks the programs so that the security is preserved. It is therefore important to answer the question that how to disable the firewall. This question has also been discussed in full for user’s satisfaction.

Part 1: History of firewall

It is one of the most important things that would ensure that the system remains safe. It is a built-in component of the windows and was launched with Windows XP. The protection as well as the user’s ability to roam free online is the main function associated.

The access that is normally associated with the firewall is normally shared. The internet connection firewall is the other name that has been associated with the firewall. However, this is the name that was associated with it prior to the release of Windows XP SP 2. The overall association of the system components with the firewall has been integrated in such a manner that ensures that the user always remains up to date. It is also to be noted that the user can change the settings of the firewall to ensure that the programs get internet access. The latter part of the tutorial will deal with the fact that how a user can enable or disable the firewall to maximize productivity.

Part 2: Profiles associated with a firewall

An Internet firewall is one of the most advanced programs that have all the necessary components embedded into it. In 2001 when the windows XP was developed the firewall was by default disabled. However, the OS that was developed by the windows after XP SP2 are the ones that have it enabled. The profiles that are associated with the firewall are the ones that get the system to assume which kind of settings are to be followed. The three main profiles that are associated with the firewall as Public, Private, and Domain. The settings that are associated with the profiles are as follows for the understanding of the users:

The public profile assumes that the network is shared with the world. Each and every person can use network settings with ease. It is however the most restrictive profile in the world of firewalling.

A private profile is the one that is associated with the inbound connections. This profile ensures that the user needs to get isolated from the internet. It is however important to note that the user cannot enjoy this privilege on its own. A local administration should always designate the profile as private for others to use it.

The domain profile is the one that is least restrictive. It allows more inbound connections for the purpose of file-sharing or any other related process. The domain profile is selected automatically when the system is connected to a network with a domain trusted by the local computer.

Part 3: Advantages of Firewall

There are certain advantages that are associated with the firewall. These are the advantages that have taken the concept to the next level. It is also advised to all the users to ensure that the advantages are read completely. It will not only make the user aware of the terminologies associated but will also get a clear picture of the program.

• The security log capabilities are added to the firewalling program of any kind. This records the successful data packets that are transferred. It also ensures that the failed connections are also recorded. The IP addresses that are associated with the network are also monitored to get network traffic inclination. The security log is however not enabled by default. The network admin must enable it.

• The COM objects oriented API can be used to configure the program. The netsh command is used to get the work done easily. The GUI admin tool that is used is easy to use and therefore it is one of the easiest configurable security programs.

• In the latest environment that has been developed the user can activate and manage multiple profiles of the firewall. This improvement means better control over the network to track the users connecting to the websites. This was originally restricted to Server editions but now the individual users can also enjoy the same capabilities.

Part 4: How to enable and disable windows firewall

The process that is to be followed in relation to the subject question has been mentioned below.

1. In the main windows interface the user needs to access the search bar. Once it has been done the firewall word is then to be typed:

2. The Firewall tab is then to be pressed so that the main window pops up:

3. In the left panel, the user needs to hit the tab i.e. turn windows firewall on or off:

4. On the last screen the firewall option is to be enabled to finish the process completely:

How to disable windows firewall?

The process and the related steps that are included are as follows:

1. On the main windows interface the search tab is to be accessible. The firewall is then to be searched for:

2. On the next window in the left panel the highlighted option is then to be pressed:

3. The firewall is then to be disabled by hitting the options that are highlighted as under. This also completes the process in full:

The firewall is a program that has been built for the user's protection. It is therefore advised to never disable it at any cost. The user therefore always looks after the program if he wants the system to remain safe all the time. Disabling firewall can bring on fatal results that are never recommended.