How to Turn Windows Defender Firewall on and off

The Windows Firewall is designed to help keep unauthorized users from accessing files and resources on your computer. A firewall is a must-have if you’re concerned about your computer’s safety.

Don’t disable the Windows Firewall unless you have a good reason, but if you have another security program performing the same functions, feel free.

Section 1. Turn Windows Defender Firewall on

Step 1. Select the Start  button and then go to Settings   

Step 2. Select Update & Security

Step 4. Go to Windows Security and then select Firewall & network protection.

Step 5. Select a Network profile

Step 6. Under Windows Defender Firewall, switch the setting to On.

Section 2. Turn Windows Defender Firewall off

Step 1. Select the Start  button > Settings  > Update & Security  > Windows Security and then Firewall & network protection.

Step 2. Select Network Profile

Step 3. Under Windows Defender Firewall, switch the setting to Off. Turning off Windows Defender Firewall could make your device (and network, if you have one) more vulnerable to unauthorized access. If there’s an app you need to use that’s being blocked, you can allow it through the firewall, instead of turning the firewall off.

Section 3. Allow an app through the firewall

Step 1. Select the Start  button > Settings  > Update & Security  > Windows Security and then Firewall & network protection. 

Step 2. Select Allow an app through firewall.

Step 3. Select the app you want to allow through.

Step 4. Select OK