How to Remove a Firewall on a Computer
Level of difficulty: Intermediate
Upon the installation of your Windows Operating System, the Windows Firewall is also installed. This functions to protect the computer system from being used or hacked without the knowledge or permission of the user. It protects the computer from a number of viruses constantly being propagated on the Internet. The Firewall’s protective mechanism involves blocking the download and running of executable applications and files and preventing malicious hackers from establishing a connection to your computer without you knowing it. There are several software manufacturers that require users to temporarily remove the computer’s Firewall before installing their product. This is because the Windows Firewall considers the software application a threat even if had been purchased from a trusted source. The Firewall could be removed in the installation of new applications and then later restored.
Materials Needed:- Computer
- Mouse
Step 1
The removal of the Windows Firewall requires the user to click the control panel and then opening and selecting the Windows Firewall. It is on the General tab that the choices On (Recommended) and Off (Not Recommended) are displayed to the user. By clicking on the 'Off' button, the user is able to completely remove the Firewall. In the installation of a new software application, this could be referred to as a solution that is short-term. But there are a several other ways for employing the Firewall while still allowing a number of other incoming applications to run. Updates on security software are among the incoming connections the user does not usually want. These programs automatically run every day to maintain and keep the computer system’s Internet security protocols up to date. In an office setting, Local Area Networks (LAN) may also need some level of control over the desktop of the user for the purpose of troubleshooting and maintenance.
Step 2
There are a number of services and applications that could be selected from a list in the Tab Exceptions in the window of the Windows Firewall. It is here that the user is able to make additions, delete or edit applications in the exceptions list. By clicking on the box that is right next to the particular application or service, you are granting these programs access to your computer. Allowing exceptions in the Windows Firewall also involves security risks; but then again, a number of applications do not work without being granted access. This is far better than having to completely remove the Windows Firewall.
Step 3
When reverting to the default settings of the Windows Firewall, the user is advised to proceed to the Advanced tab and then click on the Restore Defaults button. This is the quickest way of protecting the computer system again after having removed the Firewall. In doing so, a number of the applications you want to employ may not function properly. You would have to go through the same process again of adding and selecting them as among the exceptions for them to work again.
Step 4
Lastly, when unsure, do some thorough research first or obtain the advice of a trusted professional before making modifications to the settings of the Windows Firewall. This is because removing the Firewall in the computer system could result in a problematic computer costing you a lot of wasted time and money in order to correct.