How to Disable a Microsoft Firewall

The Windows firewall is a built-in security feature of the Microsoft Vista and XP Operating Systems. It is designed to protect your computer against many types of malicious software and network attacks. The firewall checks the information received from the Internet or network. Depending on the settings, this information is either allowed to pass through or is blocked. Windows firewall is enabled by default and disabling it will make the computer and network at risk to hackers, viruses, malware, adware and spyware. Turning off the Windows firewall is only recommended under certain circumstances, such as the entire network being protected by another firewall, installing an alternative firewall or short-term troubleshooting connection issues.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

How to Disable Microsoft Windows Vista Firewall

1. 
    

   Click "Start" and then "Control Panel."

2. 
    

   Click on "Security Center."

3. 
    

   Click "Windows Firewall."

4. 
    

   Click "Turn Windows Firewall On or Off."

5. 
    

   Click "Continue," and then click "Off Not Recommended."

6. Click "Apply," and then "OK."

How to Disable Microsoft Windows XP Firewall

7. 
    

   Click "Start" and then "Control Panel."

8. 
    

   Click on "Network Connections."

9. 
    

   Click "Change Windows Firewall Settings."

10. 
     

    Click "Off Not Recommended," and then click "OK."

References

• Microsoft Windows Vista Firewall
• Disabling Windows Firewall