Everyone knows that protecting their computer from unwanted programs, spyware and viruses from the Internet is very important. Many computer uses will add the proper software such as anti-virus to help protect their computer but many do not realize that Windows XP comes with a built-on firewall that also helps protect your system.

In the most basic terms, a firewall is typically a device, or in the case if Windows XP software, that protects your system from the “bad” stuff on the Internet by only allowing trusted traffic and programs to access your system. The firewall is typically configured to block the most known “bad” traffic but can be modified to either block additional traffic or allow traffic through.

Determine if Windows XP Firewall is Enabled:
Use the below procedure to determine if the Windows XP firewall is protecting your system.

1. Click on Start | Control Panel


2. In the Control Panel open the Security Center

If the Firewall is listed as ON then your computer is protected. If the firewall is listed as OFF then your computer is not protected. If you are using a different firewall, such as one available with your router, then it is not necessary to activate the Windows XP firewall.

Enable Window XP Firewall
To activate the firewall follow this procedure:

1. Click on Start | Control Panel


2. In the control panel open Security Center


3. Click on Recommendations


4. Click on Enable now


5. Click on Close


6. Click on OK

Your computer is now protected against unwanted threats from the Internet.

Configure the Firewall with an Exception
There may instances when the firewall will block Internet traffic or local programs that need access to the Internet. The firewall can be configured with an exception to allow the traffic through the firewall hence allowing access.

To create a firewall exception for a program:

1. Click on Start then All Programs


2. Right-click on the program that you want to allow through the firewall and select Properties


3. Click on the Shortcut tab and then right-click on the Target and select Copy


4. Click on Cancel to close windows.


5. Click on Start and then Control Panel


6. In the Control Panel open the Security Center


7. From with in the Security Center select Windows Firewall


8. Click on the Exceptions tab


9. In the Exceptions tab click on Add Program


10. From the Add a Program dialog click on Browse


11. Right-click on the File name box in the Browse dialog and select Paste


12. Click on Open then click on OK twice to exit

The program should now be able to access the Internet.