Windows Vista : Understanding Windows Firewall settings

In this article On (recommended)
Block all incoming connections
Off (not recommended)

A firewall can help prevent hackers or malicious software (such as
worms) from gaining access to your computer through a network or the
Internet. A firewall can also help stop your computer from sending
malicious software to other computers.

There are three settings on the General tab in Windows Firewall.
Here's what they do and when you should use them:

Windows Firewall can help protect your computer
Always make sure you have Windows Firewall or another firewall
running on your computer.


On (recommended)
This setting is selected by default. When Windows Firewall is on, most
programs are blocked from communicating through the firewall. If you
want to unblock a program, you can add it to the Exceptions list (on
the Exceptions tab). For example, you might not be able to send photos
in an instant message until you add the instant messaging program to
the Exceptions list.

Block all incoming connections
This setting blocks all unsolicited attempts to connect to your
computer. Use this setting when you need maximum protection for your
computer, such as when you connect to a public network in a hotel or
airport, or when a computer worm is spreading over the Internet. With
this setting, you are not notified when Windows Firewall blocks
programs, and programs on the Exceptions list are ignored.

When you select Block all incoming connections, you can still view
most webpages, send and receive e‑mail, and send and receive instant
messages.

Off (not recommended)
Avoid using this setting unless you have another firewall running on
your computer. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your computer
(and your network, if you have one) more vulnerable to damage from
hackers and malicious software (such as worms).

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