NOTE: After you launch the Windows Firewall add-on, the Control Panel applet is only available to the Administrator account.

●General Tab: The General tab provides access to the main three configuration options as shown below.

◦On (Recommended)

◦Don’t allow exceptions

◦Off (Not Recommended)

When you select Don't allow exceptions, Windows Firewall blocks all requests to connect to your computer, including those from programs or services on the Exceptions tab. The firewall also blocks file and printer sharing and discovery of network devices

Using Windows Firewall with no exceptions is useful when connecting to a public network. This setting can help to protect your computer by blocking all attempts to connect to your computer. When you use Windows Firewall with no exceptions, you can still view Web pages, send and receive e-mail, or use an instant messaging program.

●Exceptions Tab: Provides the ability to add program and port exceptions to permit certain types of inbound traffic. The exception settings specify the set of computers for which this port/program is open.

You can specify three different modes of access:

◦Any computer (including those on the Internet)

◦My network (subnet) only

◦Custom list

18 Chapter 3 Applications

ENWW