Windows Firewall is a Microsoft Windows application that filters information coming to your system from the Internet and blocking potentially harmful programs. The software blocks most programs from communicating through the firewall. Users simply add a program to the list of allowed programs to allow it to communicate through the firewall. When using a public network, Windows Firewall can also secure the system by blocking all unsolicited attempts to connect to your computer.
Recommended Reading: The History of Windows Operating Systems.
The first release of Windows Firewall was called Internet Connection Firewall and was released in Windows XP (Service Pack 2).
How to Turn Windows Firewall On or Off
Windows Firewall allows you to customize settings for both private and public networks. You can also turn the software on or off (on by default). use the following steps in Windows 10:
- Go to the search box.
- Type firewall and click Enter.
- Select Windows Firewall.
- Turn Windows Firewall on or off.