How to Remove a Software Firewall Block

You can manage your firewall settings and remove software blocks.

Enabling the Windows Firewall on your PC computer is highly recommended, but sometimes you may notice that having the firewall turned on will block certain software programs or services. In these situations, you can remove the firewall block by setting up an exception to the Windows Firewall policy, instead of turning off the firewall completely and making your computer vulnerable to outside security threats.

Things You'll Need

• PC running Windows XP or later

Instructions

1. Log on to your PC computer with an account that has administrative privileges. Only administrators can make changes to the system's firewall settings.

2. Open the Start menu and click on the "Control Panel" icon.

3. Double-click on the "Windows Firewall" icon.

4. Go to the "Exceptions" tab at the top of the window. A list of the software programs monitored by the Windows Firewall will appear.

5. Check the box next to the software program for which you want to remove the firewall block. If the software is not listed, click on the "Add Program" button and select it from the expanded list.

6. Press the "OK" button to save the settings and remove the firewall block on the selected software.

References

• Windows Support: Using Windows Firewall