Applies ToWindows 11 Windows 10

The Windows Firewall helps safeguard your device by filtering network traffic and blocking unauthorized access. It reduces the risk of network security threats by restricting or allowing traffic based on various properties such as IP addresses, ports, or program paths.

You can use the Windows Security app to view and manage the status of Windows Firewall. You can turn the firewall on or off, and access advanced settings for different network types, including domain (workplace), private (trusted), and public (untrusted) networks

Screenshot of the Firewall and Network Protection page of the Windows Security app.

Configure Windows Firewall with Windows Security

  1. In the Windows Security app on your Windows device, select Firewall & network protection or use the following shortcut:

    Firewall & network protection​​​​​​​

  2. Select a network profile: Domain network, Private network, or Public network

  3. Under Microsoft Defender Firewall, switch the setting to On to enable Windows Firewall. To turn it off, switch the setting to Off. Turning off Windows Firewall could make your device more vulnerable to unauthorized access. If there's an app you need to use that's being blocked, you can allow it through the firewall, instead of turning the firewall off

Note: if your device is managed by an organization, policy settings might prevent you from modify the Windows Firewall configuration. For more information, contact your administrator.

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