Is your computer an Open Invitation for HACKERS? Download free version of Sparktrust Inspector to identify vulnerabilities and problems on your computer (and even your WEBSITES)!
Every time I turn on my PC, the firewall icon comes on stating it isn't turned on. I go to Windows to enable it and message states: sorry etc. Why do I have to go to Windows Firewall and turn on the firewall every single time I go online? Why does it go off? Can other people find info on my PC if I have wireless? 
What Does Windows Firewall Do?
First, let's talk about what Windows Firewall is designed to do. It is intended to protect you from computer worms that are sent over a network. It is also intended to hide your computer from outside users and to prevent them from gaining unauthorized access to your computer and its contents. Therefore, if you do not have Windows Firewall enabled and you do not have another firewall of some type on your computer, then it is not protected.
Troubleshooting Windows Firewall: Possible Reasons behind the Problem
A number of different scenarios could lead to the turning off of your Windows Firewall. In particular, since it is such a superior application, the presence of Norton Antivirus is known to turn off Windows Firewall. As long as you have that application installed, then you will continue to experience this message. In this case, it's okay as the firewall found in Norton is providing the protection that you need.
Other applications that include a firewall of their own can also cause this to happen. This includes the following: Zone Alarm, Norton Internet Security, and Comodo Firewall.
Basic incompatibility between applications will make one or both of them fail to function properly. If you recently installed a new computer security application, this could be creating the problem.
Is your computer an Open Invitation for HACKERS? Download free version of Sparktrust Inspector to identify vulnerabilities and problems on your computer (and even your WEBSITES)!
Troubleshooting Windows Firewall: Leaving it Disabled
If you have another firewall on the computer that can protect you from viruses, worms, hackers, and Trojans, then you could allow Windows Firewall to remain off. Alternatively, you could decide to continue using Windows Firewall and uninstall the other firewall.
Troubleshooting Windows Firewall: Scan for Malware
Scan your computer now to see if it has been infected with a virus, Trojan, or other form of malware. If it has, this infection could create this type of problem. If you don't have a reliable anti-virus application, I can recommend that you try Anti-VirusPLUS. Once you remove the infection, this problem should go away.
Troubleshooting Windows Firewall: Additional Tips
- Uninstall any recent hardware additions and reboot the computer.
- Uninstall any recent software additions and reboot the computer.
- Complete a "System Restore" with a date that occurred before this problem began.
How to Turn on Windows Firewall
To enable Windows Firewall, you can follow these directions:
- Select "Start."
- Select "Run."
- Type "Firewall.cpl" and select "OK."
- Select "On (recommended)" under the "General" tab.
- Select "OK."
If none of the above information helps to resolve the problem for you, please submit the entire error message that you are receiving.
Is your computer an Open Invitation for HACKERS? Download free version of Sparktrust Inspector to identify vulnerabilities and problems on your computer (and even your WEBSITES)!
Susan Keenan | June 10th, 2009
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