Manage updates with the Download AppCNET Editors' review
Recent versions of Windows pack some underrated security tools, such as the Windows Firewall, which compares favorably with quite a few better known firewalls and even plays nicely with many of them. Windows Firewall Control is a simple bit of freeware that extends the capabilities of the built-in Windows firewall controls. It adds icons and entries to the system tray, desktop, and other locations; adds shell integration in Explorer menus; and other options.
When installing Windows Firewall Control, you're presented with a small dialog containing a variety of check boxes for configuring how you access the program and how it starts. If you run the Windows Firewall at startup (and you ought to, if you run it at all) you can set Windows Firewall Control to run at startup, too. When we'd made our choices and finished the setup process, a small shield logo appeared in the notification area, also known as the system tray. The shield's color indicates Windows Firewall's filtering status; high, medium, low, and no filtering, for when the firewall is turned off. Clicking the icon opens the program's compact console, which offers tabs for Profiles, Options, Policies, Shortcuts, and About. The Profiles tab includes Windows Firewall's filtering slider, a button to access a detailed rules manager, and the ability to lock the current configuration. Among the options is the ability to enable Learning Mode and display notifications. We could also import and export policies.
The interface stays pinned to the corner and can't be dragged around, and you can't pin it open or specify always-on-top. The ability to keep the interface open would add to this tool's usefulness, which is certainly keeping with its mission to extend the functionality of the built-in Windows Firewall. If you use the Windows Firewall, try Windows Firewall Control.
Publisher's Description
From BiniSoft:
Windows Firewall Control is a nifty little application developed to provide quick access to the most frequent options used from Windows Firewall. It sits in the system tray and allows user to control the Windows Firewall by navigating to the specific part of the Firewall. Options to enable or disable firewall, access Windows Firewall and its Advanced Security are all given in the system tray right-click context menu. It extends the default functionality of the native firewall by integrating the program into the context menu of the executable files and by showing to the user the notifications of outgoing blocked connections.
What's new in this version: Version 3.5 fixed random errors in wfc.exe at system reboot appeared in the last version because of calls to user32.dll.
More Products to Consider
-
Protect your PC against the latest viruses and spyware. -
Protect your computer from viruses and malicious programs. -
Detect and quickly remove malicious threats to your computer. -
Provide secure, anonymous, and private browsing on Wi-Fi hotspo... -
Search your hard disk and Registry for threats to your security... -
Detect and eliminate viruses, get free protection for home user... -
Download and exchange files safely, enjoy games and Web surfing... -
Hide and encrypt any folder including flash disk and removable ... -
Rescue your computer from viruses and malware. -
Record and view every keystroke typed on keyboard. -
Rescue your computer from viruses and malware. -
Secure your connection to public Wi-Fi networks with premium VP... -
Organize your passwords and other sensitive information. -
Keep your passwords secured and organized. -
Keep your business safe when e-mailing or going online. -
Get the latest antivirus updates. -
Protect your personal home computer from malware attacks. -
Get updated virus pattern files. -
Detect and remove spyware, malware, rootkits, trojans, hijacker... -
Update Norton virus definitions and antivirus products. -
Protect your PC against viruses, spyware, Trojans, worms, rootk... -
Eliminate unknown malware and virus intrusions into your PC. -
Protect local and remotely running applications from undesirabl... -
Stay anonymous, change your IP address, and protect your comput...
-
All versions:
2.9 starsout of 36 votes
-
Current version:
3.5 starsout of 2 votes
-
My rating:
Write review
Results 1-2 of 2
-
"poor, unable to install"
Version: Windows Firewall Control 3.5
Pros
unknown, won't install
Cons
repeatedly asks permission to install and then apparently fails to do so.
Summary
poor product
-
"Version 3.5 is the best version ever. Runs very smooth."
Version: Windows Firewall Control 3.5
Pros
- You can control all aspects of Windows Firewall very easy.
- This tool is a must.
- From this version, Lock feature is available to all users.
- Easy to use, very intuitive.Cons
- Learning Mode which gives the user notifications about outbound blocked connections, requires to be a registered user. This requires a donation of 10$. This is very cheap, because you can activate it on all of your home computers (4 in my case). I am a registered user since version 2.9 and I can tell you that this little program worth the money.
Summary
If you want to get rid of 3rd party firewalls and use Windows Firewall with Advanced Security, this little gem is a must. Very powerfull and easy to use. Even if you know nothing about firewalls, this tool will be easy to learn in minutes.
Results 1-2 of 2
Add Your Review
Submit your reply
E-mail this review
Report offensive content
Previous Versions:
