Windows firewall is built-in software that creates a protective barrier between your computer and potentially damaging content on the Internet or network. A firewall will help protect your computer from attacks by other users and by software such as computer viruses or worms or unsolicited incoming network traffic. Microsoft Vista (all versions) and Windows XP (SP2 or SP3) all include firewall software.
Note These steps are only for Windows XP SP2 and Windows SP3, but not for earlier versions of Windows XP. If you are not sure which version of Windows XP you are running, open My Computer, click Help, and click the About screen. To enable Windows Firewall, follow these steps:
Windows XP Users:
1. Click Start.
2. Click Run.
3. Type Firewall.cpl, and then click OK.
4. On the General tab, click On (recommended).
5. Click OK.
Windows Vista users:
1. Click Vista start icon.
2. Click into 'Start Search' box.
3. Type Firewall.cpl, and then click OK.
4. Click the 'Change settings' link.
5. On the General tab, click On (recommended).
6. Click OK.
Note: If the General tab or the On (recommended) option is unavailable, the system may already be running a third-party firewall (ie: Zone Alarm or Norton Internet Security). Contact the our helpdesk at 937-335-5300 for help determining whether a firewall is already running on the system.