Windows 7 Made Simple

Adjusting Windows Firewall Settings

A firewall is a barrier that restricts the flow of information in and out of your computer across the Internet or a network. Think of it as a castle wall, meant to keep the enemy from coming in or taking things out.

You should always have Windows Firewall on, unless you are using another firewall from an Internet security suite.

Windows Firewall works by identifying what types of programs and traffic to allow in and out of your computer. If a program attempts an unsolicited request—a request that you didn't make or authorize a program to make—Windows Firewall blocks the connection. It then allows you the opportunity to unblock the program. If you unblock it, Windows Firewall creates an exception and won't ask ...