How to Turn Off a Firewall

Firewalls are designed to stop unauthorized access to a computer. Firewalls are also used to encrypt and decrypt computer traffic between computers. A firewall can stop hackers and worms from getting to your computer. A typical firewall will block virtually all programs from entering the computer or network. If access is to be granted to a particular program you can add that program to the Exceptions list. Windows does not recommend shutting down the Windows Firewall unless you have another firewall program running.

Instructions

To turn off the Windows Firewall in Windows XP

1. Click the "Start" button located on the task bar.

2. Click "Control Panel."

3. Double Click "Windows Firewall."

4. Click the "Off" radio button located under the "General" tab.

5. Click "OK." Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

To turn off the Windows Firewall in Windows Vista

1. Press the "Start" button located on the task bar.

2. Type "firewall.cpl." The Windows Firewall window will open.

3. Select "Change Settings." The Windows Firewall Settings window will open.

4. Click "Continue" if the "User Account Control" window opens.

5. Click the "Off" radio button.

6. Click "OK."