An IP (Internet Protocal) address can be equated as a telephone number for your computer. Your computer uses this number and various access points, otherwise known as ports, to send and receive information online. Internet security has become an important part of all operating systems as Internet connectivity has become a bigger part of a computer user’s experience. Hackers and malicious software use the same IP addresses and ports that Internet browsers and chat clients use. Windows operating systems come with built-in software that empowers users to negotiate IP security.
Instructions
- 1
Click on the “Start” button on the main menu bar.
- 2
Click on “Control Panel” and select “Security Center” if running Windows XP. Double-click on “Windows Firewall” once in the “Security Center” window.
- 3
Click on the “Exceptions” tab in the “Windows Firewall” window.
- 4
Review the selection populated under “Programs and Services” and ensure all programs and services have legitimate reason to access the Internet.
- 5
Click on “Add Programs” to allow Internet connectivity permission to a program. Adding a program exception allows a program full use of your Internet connection.
Windows Vista Instructions
- 1
Click on the “Start” button on the main menu bar. Click on “Control Panel” then select “Security.”
- 2
Click on “Windows Firewall” then select “Allow a program through Windows Firewall.”
- 3
Click on the “Exceptions” tab in the “Windows Firewall” window.
- 4
Review the selection populated under “Programs and Services” and ensure all programs and services have legitimate reason to access the Internet.
- 5
Click on “Add Programs” to allow Internet connectivity permission to a program. Adding a program exception allows a program full use of your Internet connection.
Click on “Add Port” to allow Internet connectivity through specific ports. Adding a port exception allows you to restrict access to all programs connecting to the Internet.
Windows 7 Instructions
- 1
Click on the “Start” button then select “Control Panel.”
- 2
Type “firewall” into the “Control Panel” search box and select “Windows Firewall.”
- 3
Click on the “Exceptions” tab in the “Windows Firewall” window.
- 4
Review the selection populated under “Programs and Services” and ensure all programs and services have legitimate reason to access the Internet.
- 5
Click on “Add Programs” to allow Internet connectivity permission to a program. Adding a program exception allows a program full use of your Internet connection.
Click on “Add Port” to allow Internet connectivity through specific ports. Adding a port exception allows you to restrict access to all programs connecting to the Internet.
