Computer Security Tips

47. Configure the WindowsXP SP 2 Firewall

Windows XP's Service Pack 2 contains a considerable upgrade to the operating system's built-in firewall software.

For one thing, the firewall is enabled by default, unless you have another form of software firewall installed on your PC such as Zonealarm. The new version of the firewall also contains more flexibility, and watches out for some new threats and actions.

To configure the SP2 Windows XP firewall go to 'start\control panel\windows firewall.'

If the firewall is enabled, it will be 'on' here. The 'don't allow exceptions' option allows no internal software to accept outside connections.

Exceptions, as accessed by the 'exceptions' tab, allow certain programs installed on your computer to accept connections from the Internet which would otherwise be blocked by the firewall. You can choose 'add program' to add any application from a list of all that are installed on your PC. Once checked, this program can act as though the firewall did not exist.