Reference number: CH000551

How to enable / disable the Microsoft Windows XP firewall.

Question:

How to enable / disable the Microsoft Windows XP firewall.

Answer:

Microsoft Windows XP comes pre-installed with a software firewall utility, although by default this feature is not enabled. Below are steps that can be followed to enable or disable this feature in Windows XP home and professional. If you're looking for information about disabling a different firewall or antivirus firewall see document CH000907.

Enabling the Windows XP firewall

1. Click Start, Settings, Control Panel and open Network Connections.
2. Within the Network Connections window, right-click the Local Area Connection and select properties.
3. Within the Local Area Connection Properties window, click the Advanced tab.
4. Finally, check the Protect my computer and network by limiting or preventing access to this computer from the Internet option.

Disabling the Windows XP firewall

1. Click Start, Settings, Control Panel and open Network Connections.
2. Within the Network Connections window, right-click the Local Area Connection and select Properties.
3. Within the Local Area Connection Properties window, click the Advanced tab.
4. Finally, uncheck the Protect my computer and network by limiting or preventing access to this computer from the Internet option.

If you are attempting to disable the Windows XP firewall but this option is already unchecked, it is possible that another developer's firewall program may be installed on the computer. See document CH000464 for a listing of firewall programs.

Additional information:

• Additional information about disabling other firewalls can be found on document CH000907.
• See our firewall dictionary definition for additional information about firewalls.