Overview
This lecture covers how to manage Windows Firewall settings, including enabling/disabling it, configuring incoming connections, managing notifications, and checking for third-party security providers.
Accessing Windows Firewall Settings
- Windows security features are enabled by default for continuous protection.
- Access Windows Firewall via the Control Panel or the Windows Security app.
- Elevated (administrator) permissions are required to change firewall settings.
- Windows Firewall uses profiles for different network types: Domain, Private, and Public.
Enabling and Disabling the Firewall
- To adjust firewall settings, open the Windows Security app and go to "Firewall & network protection."
- Select the relevant network profile (Domain, Private, Public) to enable or disable the firewall.
- Turning the firewall off triggers a warning about increased vulnerability.
- User Account Control (UAC) will prompt for confirmation when making changes.
Managing Incoming Connections
- Each firewall profile allows you to block all incoming connections, including those from allowed apps.
- Enabling this setting increases security, especially on unknown or public networks.
- Changes to incoming connection settings require UAC approval.
Configuring Notifications
- Notification settings can be managed from "Firewall & network protection" in the Windows Security app.
- Notifications alert you when the firewall blocks new apps.
- Notifications can be enabled or disabled for each network profile (Domain, Private, Public).
- Adjust notification preferences for virus, account, and firewall events as needed.
Identifying Security Providers
- Verify if Windows Defender Firewall or a third-party firewall is active via the "Security providers" section.
- The system displays active antivirus, firewall, and web protection providers.
- Information about each provider can be accessed for further management.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Firewall — a security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic.
- Profile — a network type category (Domain, Private, Public) with unique firewall settings.
- User Account Control (UAC) — a Windows feature that helps prevent unauthorized changes by prompting for approval.
- Security Provider — a software component (antivirus, firewall, web protection) managing system security.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Verify administrator permissions before making firewall changes.
- Practice accessing and adjusting firewall settings for each network profile.
- Review notification and security provider settings in the Windows Security app.