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Protecting Your Data: A Guide to Windows Firewall
The Windows Firewall Exceptions Tab
In the rare situations where Windows Firewall requires a manual configuration change, the Exceptions tab is often where you'll make your modifications. The exceptions tab contains a list of all Windows Firewall exceptions, details of the exception scope, and options to add and delete application and port exceptions.
Why have exceptions?
Windows Firewall is designed to protect your computer by blocking all unauthorized traffic. If Windows Firewall wasn't in place, these unsolicited network communications would be able to easily attack your computer in the hopes of locating a vulnerable application.
If Windows Firewall is protecting my computer, why would I want to make an exception?
Exceptions are a normal part of firewall administration. Some applications require an open link to the network to operate normally. For example, Windows file and printer sharing is always patiently waiting for a remote device to connect to your computer and share files. If Windows Firewall didn't allow an exception for Windows file and printer sharing, other computers wouldn't be able to connect to your computer. Exceptions can also be a double-edged sword. Each exception creates another "hole" in Windows Firewall, and more holes create more opportunities for unauthorized access to your computer. Your Windows Firewall exceptions list should be examined periodically, and unnecessary exceptions should be disabled or deleted.
