In Windows XP, how do I enable or disable the firewall?

Windows XP comes with the Internet Connection Firewall (ICF), and Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) installs the Windows Firewall, a replacement for the ICF, and turns it on by default. The ICF and the Windows Firewall restrict communications from the Internet to your computer or network. They're intended to protect your computer or network from an attacker who might damage or get access to your personal information. However, in some cases, these firewall programs may prevent access to Indiana University web services (e.g., Oncourse, IU Webmail), connections to the IU VPN servers, or access for network services and programs.

The ICF is fairly basic; however, if it is the only firewall protection your computer has, try enabling it and see if it affects any functions you normally use.

The Windows Firewall offers enhanced security features over the ICF. The University Information Security Office (UISO) recommends that you leave the Windows Firewall enabled. If you have trouble with applications or services after installing Windows XP SP2, you can make exceptions in the Windows Firewall for those programs.

To enable or disable the ICF or the Windows Firewall:

1. From the Start menu, select Control Panel, or Settings and then Control Panel.
   
   
2. Double-click Network Connections, and in the resulting window, right-click Local Area Connection. In the menu that appears, select Properties.
   
   Note: If you connect using VPN or dial-up, right-click the appropriate connection icon instead of Local Area Connection.
   
   
3. Click the Advanced tab.
   
   
4. If you have the ICF, under "Internet Connection Firewall", to enable the firewall, check Protect my computer and network by limiting or preventing access to this computer from the Internet. To disable the firewall, uncheck this option. Then click OK.

   If you have the Windows Firewall, under "Windows Firewall", click Settings... , and select On (recommended) to enable the firewall. To disable it, select Off (not recommended). If you want to suspend any exceptions you've made, check Don't allow exceptions. Click OK.

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