The Windows Firewall is an essential security feature that protects your computer from unwanted network traffic. However, there may be instances where you need to reset the Firewall settings to ensure the smooth functioning of your system. 

This article will provide five different ways to reset the Windows Firewall settings, so you can choose the best method for you.

5 Ways to Reset the Windows Firewall Settings
5 Ways to Reset the Windows Firewall Settings

Reset the Firewall using Command Prompt.


Command Prompt is one of the most straightforward ways to reset the Windows Firewall. Follow the steps below to reset the Firewall settings:


Open Command Prompt


  • Type "cmd" in the search bar and right-click on "Command Prompt" to select "Run as administrator".


Run Commands


  • Type "netsh advfirewall reset" and press enter.
  • Wait for the command to complete, and you will see a message saying, "The firewall's settings have been reset."


Restart Firewall Service


  • Type "netsh advfirewall set allprofiles state on" and press enter.
  • This will restart the Firewall service and turn it back on.


Use the Control Panel to Reset the Firewall

Another way to reset the Windows Firewall is by using the Control Panel. Follow the steps below:


Open Control Panel


  • Type "Control Panel" in the search bar and select the app.


Select "Windows Defender Firewall"


  • Click "System and Security" and then select "Windows Defender Firewall."


Click on "Restore defaults."


  • Select "Restore defaults" from the left-hand menu.
  • Click "Restore defaults" in the pop-up window to reset the Firewall settings.

 

Use Third-Party Firewall Software

You can also use third-party firewall software to reset the Windows Firewall settings. Follow the steps below:


Download and Install a Third-Party Firewall


  • Choose a third-party firewall software and download and install it on your computer.


Disable Windows Firewall


  • Type "Windows Defender Firewall" in the search bar and select "Windows Defender Firewall."
  • Click on "Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off" from the left-hand menu.
  • Select "Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended)" for private and public networks.


Restart the Computer

  • Restart your computer to apply the changes.


Use Registry Editor to Reset the Firewall


You can also use the Registry Editor to reset the Windows Firewall settings. Follow the steps below:


Open Registry Editor


  • Type "regedit" in the search bar and select "Registry Editor" to open it.


Locate and Delete Firewall Registry Keys


  • Navigate to "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\
  • CurrentControlSet\Services\SharedAccess\Parameters\FirewallPolicy" in the left-hand menu of the Registry Editor.
  • Right-click "FirewallPolicy" and select "Export" to back up the current settings.
  • Delete the "FirewallPolicy" folder and all its subfolders.


Restart the Firewall Service

  • Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type "netsh advfirewall reset" to reset the Firewall.
  • Type "netsh advfirewall set allprofiles state on" to restart the Firewall service.


Use Windows PowerShell to Reset the Firewall


You can also use Windows PowerShell to reset the Windows Firewall settings. Follow the steps below:


Open Windows PowerShell


  • Type "Windows PowerShell" in the search bar and right-click on the app to select "Run as administrator."


Run Commands


  • Type "Set-NetFirewallProfile -Profile Domain,Public,Private -Enabled False" and press enter.
  • Wait for the command to complete.
  • Type "Set-NetFirewallProfile -Profile Domain,Public,Private -Enabled True" and press enter.


Restart Firewall Service


  • Type "Restart-Service mpssvc" to restart the Firewall service.


FAQs:


Q1. Will resetting the Windows Firewall delete all my settings?
A1. Resetting the Windows Firewall will delete all the current settings and restore it to the default state.

Q2. Will resetting the Firewall affect my network connection?
A2. Yes, resetting the Firewall can temporarily disrupt your network connection. However, it will automatically reconnect after the Firewall service is restarted.

Q3. Is it safe to use third-party firewall software?
A3. Yes, it is safe to use third-party firewall software as long as it comes from a reputable and trustworthy source.

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Conclusion:


Resetting the Windows Firewall is a crucial step to ensure your computer's security and proper functioning. Using one of the five methods discussed in this article, you can easily reset the Firewall settings and avoid any potential network issues. Remember to use these methods only when necessary and always back up your current settings before making any changes. Stay safe and secure!