The Windows Firewall in Windows XP is designed to help keep unauthorized users from accessing files and resources on your computer. A firewall is a must-have if you're concerned about your computer's safety. Because the internet is a public network, any connected computer can find and connect to any other connected computer. A firewall is a barrier between the public internet and your private computer system. It's necessary to remember that Windows Firewall does offer some protection from network attacks from malicious software known as worms. However, Windows Firewall does not protect you from viruses or spyware.
To verify that Windows Firewall is protecting your computer follow these instructions:
1. Click Start, and then click Control Panel.
2. From the Control Panel, click Security Center.
- If Windows Firewall shows On, you are protected.
- If Windows Firewall shows OFF, it has been disabled. If you have another firewall installed, this is probably OK. If you don’t have another firewall installed, you will need to re-enable Windows Firewall from within Security Center.
To re-enable Windows Firewall
1. Click Recommendations.
2. Click Enable Now.
3. Click Close.
4. Click OK.
Now Windows Firewall will protect you from many unwanted communications.