How to Turn off Firewalls in a Computer

A firewall is a software security measure that prevents unauthorized access to a computer or computer network. The firewall prevents dangerous applications and untrusted users from compromising the security of businesses and personal computers. Unfortunately, firewalls sometimes block a user's access to programs and websites that they need to use. You can turn your firewall off in Windows or on a Mac with just a few simple steps.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Turn off a Firewall in a Windows Computer

1. Left click on the "Start" icon on your Windows task bar. This will bring up the Start menu.

2. Select the "Control Panel" from the start menu. The control panel is on the right side of the Start menu.

3. Double click on "Windows Firewall" from the control panel in Windows XP. From the Windows Vista control panel, double click on "Networking and Internet" followed by "Windows Firewall."

4. Click on "Change settings." In Windows Vista, you'll receive a prompt asking if you initiated the action. Select "Continue." In both versions of Windows, after opening the box to change settings, select the option to turn off the firewall. This option is next to a small red icon with an "X" in it.

Turn off a Firewall in a Macintosh Computer

1. Select "Apple" menu. This will bring up the computer's main menu.

2. Choose "System preferences," then "View," followed by "Sharing."

3. Click on the "Firewall" tab.

4. Push the "Stop" button to turn the firewall off.

Tips & Warnings

• Your computer can become vulnerable to Internet-based attacks if you turn off the firewall.