The Windows Firewall acts as a shield and protects the PC from numerous threats. Therefore, it is important to keep this app-enabled at all times. However, there are times when third-party software might conflict with this app. In those cases, you can provide an exception to that app within the Windows Firewall but should never disable it. This blog is for readers who find that the Windows Firewall has been turned off automatically and cannot get it up and running again. Here is what you need to do:
Also Read: How To Fix “Windows Defender Firewall Has Blocked Some Features Of This App”
Method 1: Execute The Firewall Troubleshooter
It is advisable to begin troubleshooting with the official Firewall troubleshooter provided by Microsoft Automated Troubleshooting Services. If you are having issues turning on the firewall in Windows, the service will scan the system for any hidden problems that might be blocking Firewall. If a problem is found, the system will recommend appropriate remedies, which you can implement manually or through the troubleshooter. The troubleshooter can be used as follows:
Step 1: Click on the link to download the Windows Firewall.
Step 2: Next, click on the download button.
Step 3: Once the file is downloaded, click twice on it to execute the file and follow the onscreen instructions.
Step 4: Check the results after the scan is finished, then implement the troubleshooter’s recommendations.
Step 5: Now that the troubleshooter has been closed, you can see if the problem has been fixed.
Method 2: Disable Any Third-Party Antivirus
Do you have any third-party security software installed on the machine you’re using? If this is the case, there is a significant likelihood that it is interfering with Windows Firewall and preventing it from functioning. Therefore, we advise temporarily disabling or removing the third-party security software before using Windows Firewall if you’ve just installed another antivirus software.
Depending on the application you’ve installed, there may be different ways to disable third-party antivirus software. However, a typical method is to right-click on the taskbar antivirus icon. You should be able to disable the antivirus software temporarily until you reboot the machine from the context menu that appears. After turning off the antivirus, try turning on the Windows Firewall to see if it works properly.
Also Read: How To Fix Windows 11/10 Firewall Error Code 0x6d9?
Method 3: Reset Firewall App
The Firewall settings may be the source of the problem. Resetting Windows Firewall settings will undo any customizations or changes that might be causing conflicts and restore the firewall configuration to its default state, solving any such problems. Here’s what you can do:
Step 1: Launch the RUN box by pressing Windows + R keys.
Step 2: Enter “Control” and click on the OK button.
Step 3: The Control Panel window will now open. You need to click on the View by option on the top and select Category from the dropdown.
Step 4: Choose System and Security, then click Windows Defender Firewall.
Step 5: On the left side of the control panel, you will have an option “Restore Defaults.” Click on it.
Step 6: Adhere to the app interface’s instructions and proceed accordingly.
Step 7: Next, press Win + R to open the RUN box again and type “cmd,” then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter key.
Step 8: The Command Prompt window will now open in admin mode. Copy and paste the following command and then press Enter.
netsh firewall set opmode mode=ENABLE exceptions=enable
Step 9: After the command has been successfully executed, exit the Command Prompt and reboot the PC.
Bonus: Use T9 Antivirus To Protect the PC On Real-Time
If you cannot enable your Firewall and do not want to clean install Windows at this point, using a powerful antivirus is the best alternative. Our experience with most security apps recommends T9 antivirus as the best bet. This real-time antivirus app ensures that your PC is always safe and protected. Besides malware monitoring and removal, this antivirus provides additional features missing in most antivirus apps. Here are some of those features:
Exploit Protection. T9 Antivirus uses a commonly ignored method that aids in protecting systems from malware that infects devices through exploits.
Firewall Security. Block dangerous software or attackers from accessing the network and data before any potential harm is done.
Web protection. It secures inbound and outgoing traffic to prevent phishing websites from being visited.
Startup Manager. Infected starting items and programs that slow down the system can be swiftly identified and removed with the Startup Manager module.
Software Updater. Keep your PC’s software updated to address security issues in outdated and inoperable software.
Optimizer & Shredder for PC. Delete unnecessary and unused files from your computer to achieve faster load times. For complete privacy and protection, use Shredder to wipe sensitive data and render it unrecoverable completely.
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The Final Word On Fixes To Try If You Can’t Enable The Windows Firewall
You should have no trouble using Windows Firewall after following the above instructions. You can submit the issue to Microsoft and wait for them to provide a remedy if the fault continues and you do not want to clean and install the system.
Please let us know in the comments below if you have any questions or recommendations. We would be delighted to provide you with a resolution. We frequently publish advice, tricks, and solutions to common tech-related problems. You can also find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest.
Also Read:
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