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Queen's UniversityWindows Firewall
Windows firewall is simply an internet traffic program, which regulates the flow of information and programs unto the local computer. It helps keep the computer better secured against unwanted and/or malicious programs that may be harmful to the computer.
Requirements
In order to complete the instructions below, you will need:
- Administrative Access to local computer
What it does
The Windows Firewall protects the pc from unauthorized users, worms, viruses and other harmful or unwarranted programs and executions. It deals mainly with the internet and network connections. Programs already installed on the computer are not affected by this restriction, unless a program attempts to connect to the network or the internet. It also keeps a security log of successful and unsuccessful connections to the internet.
How it works
- It blocks malicious programs and unauthorized users from accessing your computer, but giving you the option of unblocking such programs as you need.
- It blocks all flow of traffic to and from the internet, unless otherwise excepted
- Note: Though similar to the anti-virus, Windows Firewall does not block spam from your email accounts, but it will block any execution of a program that attempts to access your computer from the internet.
How to set it up
Windows firewall is a security program that comes with your Windows XP software. It does not require a special installation, because it’s imbedded in the operating system. But you do have to turn it on. This may not be necessary, because the default setting during initial setup and first use of your computer, turns it on. You must have administrator access/password to the computer before you can turn it on, because it is an administrative task. To turn Windows Firewall on:
1. Click Start >> Go to Control Panel
2. Open Control Panel, then click Network and Internet Connections
3. On the General tab, click your option.
On – This is the recommended option for the protection of your computer. It will invariably block all programs and unauthorized users from connecting to the internet or your network, except for those selected in the Exceptions tab. You can also check the "Don’t Allow Exceptions" box for a better protection of your computer. What this does is to block all programs, including the ones selected in the Exceptions tab.
Off –Though this is not recommended, you can actually turn off Windows Firewall, if you have another firewall program installed, which you monitor.
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