How to Deal With a Windows Firewall Alert
By Dan Gookin
You see firewall warnings on your Windows PC during one of two situations. First, because you're using a new
program that accesses the Internet. Second, because something sneaky is trying to access the Internet or get
into your computer from the Internet. In both situations, the firewall is unfamiliar with what's going on,
so you're warned.
A typical firewall warning is shown here. The one you see on your screen may look different, but your
actions remain the same:
Did you just start that program or do something that caused the program to ask for access? If so, allow the
access. If not, deny access.
For example, if you're running an online, multiplayer game for the first time, you may see the firewall
warning. That's an allowed use. On the other hand, if you see the firewall warning and don't recognize the
program or you're not doing anything that requires Internet access, block the program.
Remember: When you allow a program through the firewall, it won't ask again. That's because you created
a new firewall rule that allows the program Internet access.
Remember: You can unblock a program if you learn later that it's legitimate.
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