How to Allow or Deny Access Through Windows Firewall

The majority of existing computers are connected to the information superhighway, which is not the safest place. However, threats can be also carried by different programs, and this is where the Firewall comes in handy.

Whenever an application you run tries to access some online services that are not trusted by Windows, the Firewall kicks in and asks for your permission. You don’t have to wait for the prompt though, with the possibility to manually prevent or allow online services to be reached.

It’s not a complicated process to go through, with most effort requiring you to pay attention to options and files you choose. Windows places some default types of applications under the question mark. Here’s how to add custom entries or place exceptions:

A few easy steps

Step 1 (Windows 8): Use the charms bar to Allow an app through Windows Firewall.

Step 1 (Windows 7): Go to Control Panel -> System and Security -> Allow an app through Windows Firewall; the second choice in the Windows Firewall category.

Step 2: Hit the Change settings button to gain access to options. It requires administrator privileges.

Step 3: Scroll through the list of detected programs to identify your target.

Step 4: Check the corresponding box to allow, un-tick to deny complete access.

Step 5 (Adding new exceptions): Click the Allow another app button.

Step 6: Select an entry from the new list that pops up.

Step 7 (Alternative): Browse with the open dialog and select the target EXE, COM, or ICD file.

More options: In the Network types prompt, you can choose to allow access through Public and/or Private connections.

Step 8: Press the rest of the OK buttons until you’re back to the Desktop.