Windows Firewall blocks most programs right out of the box by default to help protect your computer from intrusion. In some instances, you may have to open a communication channel through Window Firewall in order for some programs to communicate with external resources. This brief tutorial is going to show you how to do that in Windows 8.
If you’re having trouble allowing other computers to communicate with your machine, you may have to find out what port and protocol should be allowed through the firewall for the machines to communicate.
To get started, press the Windows Key + X on your keyboard to show Windows 8 Tool Menu. When it opens, select ‘Control Panel’ from the list.
Next, select the System and Security group from Control Panel. Or you can use the search box to search for firewall
Then click ‘Windows Firewall’ or use the shortcut and select ‘Allow an app through Windows Firewall’.
Next, click ‘Change setting’. When prompted for the administrator password, type it to continue. Then, select the box next to the program you want to allow through the firewall. Don’t forget the network on which the program is running (Private or Public) or select both.
If the program is not on the list of available apps, click the ‘Allow another app..; button to search for it. This can also apply to custom programs which communicate on different ports.
When you find the custom app or program, select it and click the ‘Add’ button. If the app communicates on a custom port, you will have to open that port though Windows Firewall as well. To open custom post through Windows Firewall, go back to Firewall from Control Panel and select ‘Advanced settings’
Next, right-click the Inbound and/or Outbound rules to create a custom rule. If the app will be communicating in both directions, you will need to create two rules on both directions.
Next, choose the rule option to continue.
Then specify the port # the app will communicate on and the protocol. If you’re not sure of the protocol, create one for both protocols.
Finally, follow through the wizard and click ‘Finish’
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I allow a specific program through Windows 8 Firewall?
To allow a specific program through Windows 8 Firewall, go to Control Panel, select 'Windows Firewall,' then 'Allow an app through Windows Firewall.' Choose the program and network type, then click 'Add.'
What should I do if my computer is not communicating with other devices due to Windows Firewall?
If your computer is not communicating with other devices, check the port and protocol settings in Windows Firewall. You may need to open specific ports for communication to work.
How do I open custom ports in Windows Firewall for a program?
To open custom ports for a program in Windows Firewall, navigate to Control Panel, select 'Windows Firewall,' then 'Advanced settings.' Right-click 'Inbound Rules' and choose 'New Rule' to add a custom port.
Can I allow multiple programs through Windows 8 Firewall simultaneously?
Yes, you can allow multiple programs through Windows 8 Firewall at the same time. Simply select each program you want to allow and specify the network type for each.
What is the shortcut to access the Windows 8 Firewall settings quickly?
To quickly access Windows 8 Firewall settings, press the Windows Key + X on your keyboard to open the Windows Tool Menu, then select 'Control Panel' and navigate to 'Windows Firewall.'
How do I add a custom program to the list of allowed apps in Windows Firewall?
If your custom program is not listed in the available apps in Windows Firewall, click 'Allow another app' and search for the program executable file to add it to the allowed list.
Why is it important to specify the network type when allowing a program through Windows Firewall?
Specifying the network type (Private or Public) when allowing a program through Windows Firewall ensures that the program is only accessible on the intended network, enhancing security and control.
What should I do if I forget the administrator password when changing Windows Firewall settings?
If you forget the administrator password when changing Windows Firewall settings, you will need to reset it to regain access and make necessary changes to allow programs through the firewall.