How to Turn Off the Firewall in Windows XP SP1

A firewall assists in protecting your computer from viruses; however, there are reasons why a firewall may need to be disabled. A firewall can block games or other programs that need Internet access from receiving it. Turning off the firewall while using these programs will allow them Internet access.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP

Instructions

1. Click on the Start button located in the lower left hand corner of the screen. Select "Control Panel." This may either open a menu, or a new window. If "Control Panel" is not listed, click "Settings," then click "Control Panel."

2. Click on "Windows Firewall" if a menu opened. If a new window opened, double click on "Windows Firewall." This will open a new window.

3. Select the circle located to the left of the word "Off" towards the bottom of the screen. Click on "OK" located in the lower right hand corner of this window. Close all windows. The Windows firewall is now disabled.