How to Configure a Windows Firewall to Allow SMB Share (8 Steps)

By Bennett Gavrish

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Enabling the Windows firewall will protect your computer from outside security threats. However, turning on the firewall also blocks certain functions of the Windows operating system, like file sharing through the SMB protocol, which is often used for sharing a single printer between multiple computers. By defining an exception to your Windows firewall, you can leave it enabled while also allowing SMB file sharing connections through to your computer.

Step 1

Log on to your computer with an account that has administrative privileges. You must be an administrator in order to modify firewall settings.

Step 2

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

Step 3

Double-click on the "Windows Firewall" icon.

Step 4

Click on the "General" tab at the top of the window.

Step 5

Make sure the box next to "Don't allow exceptions" is not checked.

Step 6

Click on the "Exceptions" tab at the top of the window.

Step 7

Check the box next to "File and Printer Sharing."

Step 8

Click on the "OK" button to save the settings and allow SMB file sharing through the Windows Firewall.

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