Used PeerBlock for Windows? Share your experience and help other users.
Editors’ Review
PeerBlock is a free and open-source personal firewall designed to block incoming and outgoing connections based on customizable blacklists of IP addresses and networks. It allows users to select from predefined lists, such as advertising, spyware, educational institutions, or P2P trackers, or add custom entries to restrict which IP addresses can connect to or from their computer.
PeerBlock provides a straightforward interface for managing blocklists, viewing connection activity, and controlling which lists are active. Its main strength lies in giving users detailed control over network connections and filtering unwanted peers or entities during P2P activity, browsing, and general internet use.
Privacy-focused connection filtering tool
PeerBlock supports multiple blocklist categories and lets users decide which lists to enable, making it flexible for specific needs such as filtering P2P peers or blocking ad and spyware hosts. The interface clearly presents active lists and connection logs while allowing manual adjustments or whitelisting if legitimate connections are mistakenly blocked. Its lightweight design ensures minimal system impact during operation.
In practice, the program is especially useful for adding an extra layer of filtering beyond standard firewall protection. It provides real-time visibility into what connections are blocked and allows users to customize filtering behavior. However, it functions best as a companion tool; many users combine it with a VPN or a more complete security suite to achieve better overall protection and privacy.
One significant drawback is that the tool’s overall effectiveness relies heavily on the quality and frequency of its blocklist updates. Since IP addresses change frequently and some hosts use advanced evasion techniques, full protection cannot be ensured. Manual updates may also be required, reducing reliability. These limitations make it best used alongside other security and privacy tools for consistent results.
Pros
- Free and open-source software
- Customizable blocklists for connection filtering
- Lightweight and easy to use
Cons
- Depends on blocklist accuracy and update frequency
- Does not encrypt or anonymize traffic
- May block legitimate connections unintentionally
Bottom Line
Practical choice with caveats
PeerBlock remains a useful and lightweight tool for users seeking greater control over network activity and connection privacy. It works best as a supplementary safeguard, giving insight into connections while adding customizable blocking options. Although it does not encrypt data or guarantee full anonymity, it contributes effectively to safer browsing and more transparent network management when paired with other reliable privacy tools.
What’s new in version 1.2.r693
- Enhanced blocklist management and update tools
- Added improved log viewer for monitoring activity
- Optimized performance on modern Windows systems
- Increased stability during long sessions
Used PeerBlock for Windows? Share your experience and help other users.
Explore More
GlassWire
FreeVPN Proxy Master Windows
Trial versionComodo Firewall
Free
Anti NetCut 3
Free
Free Firewall (64-bit)
Free
TinyWall
Free
Windows Live OneCare
Trial version
Geo Firewall
Trial version
DNS Proxywall
Trial version
RDP Security Manager
Trial version
UserGate Proxy & Firewall
Trial version
Sun Firewall
Trial version
.png){kind=icon}
