The best free program to manage the Windows Firewall

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If you've ever thought, "I love TinyWall, but it blocks everything, even the air," you're not alone: ​​many of us have experienced this. We want a silent firewall, but one that doesn't ask for permission every two minutes.The trick is finding the balance between blocking what's dangerous and letting everyday things work, without every update to Discord, Steam, or your VPN becoming an ordeal.

In addition, it's worth remembering that many commercial antivirus programs include their own firewall module. Activate that firewall integrated into a security suite It can be a great move if you're looking for centralized management, although there are also free third-party options and Windows tools that, when properly configured, are more than adequate.

The native Windows firewall: what it offers and how it has changed in Windows 11

For the average user, this means that the Windows 11 firewall is more flexible, more context-aware, and more transparent If you're up for reviewing the logs. And if you manage teams with Intune, things get even more advanced, because you can target specific apps with fine-grained policies without having to worry about routing.

Another significant advantage: almost no impact on performanceUnlike some third-party firewalls, Windows' firewall works smoothly, consumes little resources, and integrates with Defender Antivirus and SmartScreen, which together create a decent barrier for everyday use.

Are you still using Windows 10? What does that mean for your firewall?

In practical terms: if you can, Upgrade to Windows 11 or consider a system with active supportNo external firewall can fully compensate for a system that is no longer routinely patched, and that includes risks from the browser, system services, and protocols.

Do you need to install another firewall in addition to the one that comes with Windows?

For most people, the Windows firewall is sufficient when combined with sensible habits and reliable antivirus software. However, if you want Fine control over ports, profiles, application-based rules, or visual monitoringThere, free alternatives shine that expand management.

In public networks, offices, or if you manage multiple computers, a third-party firewall with detailed logging, alerts, and advanced profiles It gives a lot of life. Note: always download from the official website, because there are fake firewall installers with malware that They masquerade as security utilities.

Can I use two firewalls at the same time on Windows?

The short answer is no. Two firewalls on the same PC often clash and cause conflicts...unusual latency issues or unintentional vulnerabilities. It's recommended to have only one device at the equipment level, and remember that your router likely already acts as the first perimeter barrier in your home or office.

Free third-party firewalls that are worth it

If the goal is to manage outbound traffic precisely, add layers of prevention, or see what the heck is connecting, these options stand out. They all have a free version And, unless otherwise stated, they work fine on current Windows.

Comodo Free Firewall

One of the most powerful names. Its proactive approach combines HIPS (Intrusion Prevention System), sandbox, Memory Firewall, and custom DNS serversas well as hiding ports and blocking suspicious software on the fly.

With Defense+, Comodo monitors app behavior and apply whitelists to authorize only what is trusted. It has an ad blocker, a secure browser, and immediate alerts if something tries to sneak in. The interface is simple, although some sections They require patience for fine-tuning..

ZoneAlarm Free Firewall

A classic that's still going strong. Control incoming and outgoing traffic with bidirectional protectionIt hides ports and detects public or private networks to adjust security. It integrates its Web Secure module, and the paid version adds even more features. Anti-phishing, download analysis, and early startup protection.

The free edition displays ads, but if you upgrade to the paid version, You avoid ads and access 24/7 supportIt is extremely user-friendly for those who want efficiency with minimal friction.

tinywall

Lightweight, discreet, and straightforward. It doesn't replace the Windows firewall, but rather enhances it. manages with a default blocking approachWithout pop-up windows. You authorize applications manually (temporarily or permanently) and can create rules by PC port types without eating up your CPU.

Their philosophy is "block first and let through what you choose." If you're looking for Silence, minimal consumption and manual control Without alerts popping up every three seconds, it's a delight.

Glasswire

More than a firewall, it's a network monitor with real-time graphics and statisticsYou can manually block connections, activate "Ask to connect" mode, and see which apps are using your bandwidth, where, and when.

It includes device detection on your networkDetailed traffic history and alerts when something changes in behavior. If you like to "see" your network and make decisions with a click, it's incredibly convenient.

AVS Firewall

Less famous, but reliable: it allows per-application rules, port and IP blocking, detailed logging, and keylogger protectionIt includes extras such as anti-banners and parental controls, with low resource consumption suitable for modest devices.

Its interface is simple, and although it is not updated as often as commercial solutions, It remains useful as a basic barrier with good customization.

PeerBlock

It's not a traditional firewall; its strength lies in... IP list blocking associated with agencies, trackers, advertising, or suspicious networks. It is very popular in P2P environments to reduce exposure to monitoring.

It's minimalist, consumes very little power, and you can Import public lists or create your ownFor maximum privacy, it should be combined with a full firewall and, if appropriate, a VPN.

Windows Defender Firewall (advanced management)

Windows' own firewall has matured considerably: bidirectional protection, low power consumption and high integration with the Microsoft security ecosystem. With the advanced security console, you can define rules by app, protocol, port, and network profile.

If you don't want to install anything extra, learn to squeeze the advanced rules The Windows firewall is a fantastic option for having control without sacrificing performance.

OpenDNS (complementary DNS layer)

It's not a typical firewall, but it adds a critical layer of security: It filters at the domain level to block phishing, malware, and content categories. before the connection is even resolved.

It is configured on the router or computer, protects all devices on the network, and offers whitelists/blacklists and parental controlKeep its limitations in mind: it doesn't filter by ports or applications, and if someone uses a direct IP address, it will block it. You will not be able to block that connection..

Norton Smart Firewall (in paid suites with trial)

Norton integrates an advanced firewall into its suites (e.g., Norton 360). It offers bidirectional protection, IPS, application control, and exploit defenseThere is no free standalone firewall, but You can try it with the demos of their solutions.

Sophos XG Firewall Home Edition

Focused on the network, not the individual team. It's a enterprise-grade firewalls for home With IPS, antimalware, web filtering, application control, VPN, QoS, and reporting. Requires a dedicated PC (with 2 NICs) and is installed as the operating system.

Ideal if you want to protect your entire network with centralized policies and time/quota controls. It consumes resources from the dedicated team, but in return Secure your home network as if it were an office.

More free alternatives to consider

There are classic solutions that still have their audience. Outpost Firewall and Private Firewall, for example, were popular for years. two very common optionsIf you find them maintained and compatible with your system, they can work well for basic protection.

Netdefender also appears, which, being open source, offers the essentials: port scanner, traffic blocking, counterfeit protection and simple rules. That said, it's worth reviewing. Which version are you installing?because some intermediate builds have been less polished.

And if you want something ultralight, many people cite SimpleWall as a minimalist option for Manage Windows filtering with a simple interfaceAs always, download from the official website.

And what about the firewall on a Mac?

macOS includes its own firewall, and Apple's ecosystem has a reputation for being more closed. It is not invulnerable, but it is less vulnerable to attack. than Windows in terms of market share. The system alerts you when installing suspicious apps and usually asks Your password for key changes.

With macOS firewall enabled and common sense, you're all set; if you want another layerThere are multi-platform antivirus programs (like Avast) that can complement, although they are not mandatory for all use cases.

Network-level open-source firewalls: when you want to go a step further

If you're looking for perimeter protection for your entire home or office, there are complete open-source systems that turn a PC or mini-PC into a professional firewall router with web interfaceTheir entry curve is steeper, but the control they provide is brutal.

pfSense

Based on FreeBSD, it is the de facto standard: advanced routing and firewall, NAT, balancing, VPN (IPsec and OpenVPN), DNS, DHCP, IDS/IPS with Snort or SuricataDDNS, captive portal, and more. You can install it on dedicated hardware or in a VM.

There's a free Community Edition and a Plus version with extra features that requires a license. The community is huge, with tutorials, forums, and very active groups (In Spain, pfSense Spain lends a hand a lot).

OPNsense

A highly optimized fork of pfSense designed for low resource consumption. It offers Frequent updates, WireGuard plus IPsec/OpenVPN, load balancing, IDS/IPS, DNS, DHCP and a polished interface. Installable on x64 systems or virtual machines using ISO/IMG.

Their proposal is to compete with pfSense at a pace of weekly improvements, maintaining a very similar set of features and a modern experience.

IPFire

With a modular design, it combines firewall, proxy, VPN and IDS system to analyze traffic and block attacks. It has a large community and support from Dynamic DNS and DHCPand is ideal as a secure gateway in SMEs or advanced homes.

endian

Based on Linux, it stands out for its all-in-one approach: firewall, antivirus, VPN and content filteringwith status tracking and secure remote access. Perfect if you want centralize security functions in one team.

Smooth Wall

With a simple web interface, it works on LAN and DMZ networksIt accelerates web proxies and generates clear statistics. It's efficient on older hardware, so take advantage of recycled equipment as firewalls.

Untangle Firewall

Based on Debian, it offers a free core and paid apps. It includes spam blocking, anti-phishing and antivirus, OpenVPN, IPS, Ad-blocking, captive portal and global traffic monitor with very convenient web administration.

shore wall

From the veterans in Linux with Netfilter: it allows define zones, internal and guest networkswith clear rules for segmentation. Although its last stable update was in 2020, many still use it. for stability and fine control.

If you want to explore further, there are names like IPCop, VyOS or Ufw (the classic frontend for iptables/nftables) that can suit your needs.

How to choose the right firewall

Before installing anything, think about the type: host, network, or application? Define what you need it for.Block outgoing traffic, monitor, segment, filter content, VPN? You'll choose better if you know what you want to solve.

Value the ease of setup and maintenanceA very complex firewall that is poorly configured can be more insecure than a simple one that is well configured. Support also matters. official 24/7 or powerful community, depending on the case.

Consider costs and compatibility: there are excellent free options, but the important thing is that fits with your ecosystem (antivirus, EDR, remote management, company policies) and don't disrupt your workflows.

Advantages of open-source in security

Open source software is not always synonymous with free, but it is synonymous with transparency and auditabilityYou can review the code, adapt functions, and benefit from a community that pushes improvements and patches.

Furthermore, open-source is usually very customizable and flexibleIdeal for advanced homes or SMEs with specific needs; consult The best Linux distributions to protect your security if you want to build solid solutions.

Furthermore, open-source is usually very customizable and flexibleIdeal for advanced homes or SMEs with specific needs. The downside is that, sometimes, It requires more learning time. than a business suite with assistants.

Frequently asked quick questions

Is the Windows 11 firewall sufficient for most people?

Yes, for general use it's more than enough, but if you're looking for advanced rules, visibility, and alertsAdd a layer using tools like GlassWire, Comodo, or TinyWall.

Does the Windows 10 firewall protect me today?

With general support ended, you depend on temporary ESUs. It is recommended to update. the system for closing vulnerabilities at the platform level.

Final tips for practical use

• Do not mix firewalls on the same computer; a single, well-configured one• Use profiles based on network (public/private). • Create exit rules for apps that shouldn't communicate outside the network. Always download from the official website• If you manage multiple machines, centralize policies and logging.

Sticking with a single "best" option is misleading because it depends on what you need: For a lightweight option, TinyWall or SimpleWall.For granular control and prevention, Comodo; for viewing and deciding, GlassWire; for ease of use and long-standing security, ZoneAlarm; for securing the entire house, Sophos XG or pfSense/OPNsenseThe Windows firewall, when properly tuned, is a great starting point, and with an extra layer where appropriate, you'll have security without going crazy.