1. What is a firewall?
A firewall is software or hardware that checks information coming
from the Internet or a network, and then either blocks it or allows it to pass
through to your computer, depending on your firewall settings.
A firewall can help prevent hackers or malicious software (such as worms) from gaining access to your computer through
a network or the Internet. A firewall can also help stop your computer from
sending malicious software to other computers.
The following illustration shows how a firewall works:
Illustration of how a firewall works
See also
Understanding Windows Firewall settings
In this article
A firewall can help prevent hackers or malicious software (such as worms) from gaining access to your computer through
a network or the Internet. A firewall can also help stop your computer from
sending malicious software to other computers.
There are three settings on the General tab in Windows Firewall. Here's what they do and when you
should use them:
|
|
Windows Firewall can help protect your computer |
|
|
|
Always make sure you have Windows
Firewall or another firewall running on your computer.
|
|
On (recommended)
This setting is selected by default. When Windows Firewall is on, most programs are blocked
from communicating through the firewall. If you want to unblock a program, you
can add it to the Exceptions list (on the Exceptions tab). For example, you
might not be able to send photos in an instant message until you add the
instant messaging program to the Exceptions list.
Block all incoming connections
This setting blocks all unsolicited attempts to connect to your
computer. Use this setting when you need maximum protection for your computer,
such as when you connect to a public network in a hotel or airport, or when a
computer worm is spreading over the Internet. With this setting, you are not
notified when Windows Firewall blocks
programs, and programs on the Exceptions list are ignored.
When you select Block all incoming connections,
you can still view most webpages, send and receive e‑mail, and send and receive
instant messages.
Off (not recommended)
Avoid using this setting unless you have another firewall running
on your computer. Turning off Windows
Firewall might make your computer (and your network, if you have one) more vulnerable to damage
from hackers and malicious software (such as worms).
Note
·
If some firewall settings are
unavailable and your computer is connected to a domain, your system administrator might be
controlling these settings through Group Policy.
See also
Turn Windows Firewall on or off
If your computer is connected to a network, network policy
settings might prevent you from completing these steps.
To
turn on Windows Firewall
2. Click Turn Windows Firewall on or off. If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
3. Click On (recommended), and then click OK.
If you want the firewall to block everything, including the
programs selected on the Exceptions tab, select the Block all incoming connections check box.
To
turn off Windows Firewall
You should not turn off Windows Firewall unless you
have another firewall enabled. Turning off Windows Firewall might make your computer (and your network, if you have one) more vulnerable to damage
from worms or hackers.
2. Click Turn Windows Firewall on or off. If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
3. Click Off (not recommended), and then click OK.
2. What are updates?
Updates are additions to software that can prevent or fix
problems, enhance the security of the computer, or improve the computer's
performance. We strongly recommend that you turn on Windows
automatic updating so that Windows can
install security and other important or recommended updates for your computer
as they become available.
Many software publishers notify you when an update or new version
of a program is available. To see if you can sign up for product support
services or set a program to automatically install updates, check the program's
help or visit the software publisher's website.
Turn automatic updating on or off
To have Windows install
important updates as they become available, turn on automatic updating.
Important updates can offer significant benefits, such as improved security and
reliability. You can also set Windows to
automatically install recommended updates, which can address non-critical
problems and help enhance your computing experience. Optional updates are not
downloaded or installed automatically. Read
more about updates online.
2. In the left pane, click Change settings.
3. Choose the option that you want.
4. Under Recommended updates, select the Include recommended updates when downloading, installing, or notifying
me about updates check box, and then click OK. If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.Understanding Windows automatic updating
Here are answers to some common questions about updating Windows automatically.
Why
update Windows automatically?
Because with automatic updating, you don't have to search for updates online or worry that critical fixes for Windows might be missing from your computer. Windows automatically checks for the latest updates
for your computer. Depending on the Windows
Update settings you choose, Windows can
install updates automatically or just let you know they're available. For more
information, see Turn automatic
updating on or off.
How
do I start updating Windows automatically?
If you haven't already, just turn on automatic updating. For more
information, see Turn automatic
updating on or off.
How
much does it cost to update Windows automatically?
There is no charge to you for the Windows
Update service. However, depending on how you are billed for your Internet
connection, standard local and long distance phone charges and Internet service
charges might apply for the time required to download an update.
How
long does it take to download an update?
It depends on the type of Internet connection you have and the
size and number of updates your computer needs. However, updates are
automatically downloaded behind the scenes when you're online. They do not
interfere with other downloads, and if you disconnect they will continue to
download in the background the next time you go online.
How
does Windows determine which updates my computer needs?
Windows Update contains
software tools that detect information about your computer, such as the make
and model and the version of Windows and
other Microsoft software that your computer
is running. Microsoft uses that information
to install only the updates your computer needs. For more information, read the
Windows Update privacy statement online.
If
I choose to update Windows automatically, do I still need to visit the Windows
Update website?
No. Windows will automatically
install updates for your computer as they become available. Also, for this
version of Windows, the website has been
replaced by Windows Update in Control Panel.
If you want to check for updates manually, follow these steps:
2. In the left pane, click Check for updates.
Tip
·
To find out how to get updates for
Windows and your other Microsoft programs such as Microsoft Office, go to the Microsoft Update website. If you're already using
Microsoft Update to get updates for your
computer, Windows Update in Control Panel
will automatically open and display your update status.
When
are updates downloaded?
Updates are downloaded behind the scenes when you're online. They
do not interfere with other downloads. If you disconnect from the Internet
before an update is fully downloaded, the download process will continue the
next time you're online.
When
are updates installed?
It depends on the automatic updating option you choose. If you
choose the recommended option, updates are installed at 3:00 A.M. or on a schedule that you choose. If you turn
off your computer before the scheduled time, you can install updates before
shutting down.
If your computer is in one of the power-saving states (Sleep or Hibernate)
during a scheduled update, and if your computer is plugged in to a power
source, Windows will wake
your computer long enough to install new updates. If your computer is running
on battery power, however, Windows will not
install updates. Windows will try to install
them instead at the next scheduled installation time. To schedule when Windows automatically installs updates:
2. In the left pane, click Change settings, and then
make sure that the Install updates automatically (recommended)
option is selected.
3. Choose the frequency and time of day when you want new updates to be
installed, and then click OK. If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
Can
I see which updates Windows has automatically installed?
Yes. View the history in Windows
Update in Control Panel, or go to Installed Updates:
Can
I choose which updates Windows automatically installs?
Yes. You can choose to install important updates only, or
important and recommended updates. Optional updates are not installed
automatically. Instead, you can choose to install them by reviewing available
updates when you check for updates using Windows
Update in Control Panel. For more information, see Turn automatic
updating on or off and Change how Windows installs or notifies you about updates.
Will
I be notified if there's a problem and important updates have not been
installed?
Yes. Windows Update will notify
you if security and other important updates cannot be installed. For more
information, see Troubleshoot
problems with installing updates.
See also
- Updates: frequently asked questions
- Change how Windows installs or notifies you about updates
- Troubleshoot problems with installing updates
- Keeping computers on a network up to date
Updates: frequently asked questions
Here are answers to some common questions about updates. For
information about updates and your privacy, read the Windows Update privacy statement online.
What
are updates?
Updates are additions to software that can prevent or fix
problems, enhance the security of the computer, or improve the computer's
performance.
Where
can I find updates?
For Windows updates, including
those for Internet Explorer or programs that ship with Windows, go to Windows
Update in Control Panel:
2. In the left pane, click Check for updates.
We recommend that you turn on automatic updating so Windows can install new updates as they become
available. For more information, see Turn automatic
updating on or off.
For information about finding updates for the Microsoft Office System, see Update Microsoft Office. For updates for other
programs and devices that you use, check the website of the publisher or
manufacturer.
Do
I need to download and install updates?
Yes. Updates do not take effect until they are installed, but to
install updates, you must first download them to your computer. You can choose to
have Windows automatically download and
install updates for you, automatically download updates and notify you so you
can install them yourself, or notify you to both download and install new
updates yourself. For more information, see Change how Windows installs or notifies you about updates.
What
types of updates can Windows install automatically?
You can set Windows to
automatically install important and recommended updates, or to install
important updates only. Important updates can offer significant benefits, such
as improved security and reliability. Recommended updates can address
non-critical problems and help enhance your computing experience. Optional
updates are not downloaded or installed automatically. For more information,
see Turn
automatic updating on or off and Change how Windows installs or notifies you about updates.
To install drivers and other optional updates
2. In the left pane, click Check for updates, and
then wait while Windows looks for the latest
updates for your computer.
3. If any updates are found, click View available updates.
4. Select the optional updates that you want, and then click Install. If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
For more information, see Change how Windows installs or notifies you about updates
and Install
Windows updates.
How
often should I update my computer and my programs?
As often as possible. Updates are the best way to prevent or
repair known problems, and they can enhance the security of your computer. For Windows, the easiest way to install updates is to
turn on automatic updating. Windows will
install new updates as they become available. For more information, see Turn automatic
updating on or off.
What
happens if I forget to install an update?
Your computer might be at risk or you might experience unnecessary
problems with Windows or your programs.
Can
I get updates automatically?
For Windows and programs that
ship with Windows, such as Internet Explorer,
yes. Just turn on automatic updating. For more information, see Turn automatic
updating on or off. For other programs, check the website of the publisher
or manufacturer to see if you can get updates automatically.
How
much do updates cost?
Updates from Microsoft for Microsoft products are free as part of maintenance
and support services. For other products, check with each program publisher and
device manufacturer to see if updates are free of charge. Depending on your
Internet connection, standard local and long distance phone charges and
Internet service charges might apply while you download and install updates
from any publisher or manufacturer.
Why
do I need to install some updates separately, before or after installing other
updates?
Typically because these updates require you to restart your
computer before they can take effect. You might, for example, need to install
an update for Windows Update itself before
you can check for other updates for your computer. In other cases, an update
might be a new version or a service pack for software that you're currently
running. To make sure that your computer is ready to install these updates, you
must first install all important updates for your computer. After you've
installed important updates, Windows will ask
if you want to install the stand-alone or "exclusive" update by
itself.
I
share my computer with other people. Do we all get the same updates?
Yes. Updates apply to Windows
and your programs, regardless of who uses them.
I
have a home network. Can I update all my computers at the same time?
No. You need to turn on automatic updating or check for updates
for each computer separately. For example, computers running different versions
of Windows need different updates. Windows detects which updates apply in each case
but you can't, for example, apply updates for Windows XP
to a computer running Windows 2000.
Can
I remove updates?
You can remove some updates, but not updates that affect
important operating system files. You should only remove an
update if you're sure that it's causing a problem.
For more information, see Remove an
update.
See also
- Install Windows updates
- Understanding Windows automatic updating
- Get security updates for Windows
- Troubleshoot problems with installing updates
How can I tell if my computer is up to date?
Your computer is up to date when you've installed the latest
updates for Windows and your programs. To
check for Windows updates, follow these
steps:
2. In the left pane, click Check for updates, and
then wait while Windows looks for the latest
updates for your computer.
3. If any updates are found, click Install updates. If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
If you are prompted for an administrator password or
confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
To check for updates for other software programs and devices, go
to the publisher's or manufacturer's website.
Tips
·
To see how to get updates for Windows and other Microsoft programs at the same
time, including updates for Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint,
and more), go to the Microsoft
Update website.
·
Some programs, such as antivirus
or spyware monitoring programs, provide a link to
check for updates from within the program. Some software publishers also offer
subscription services and can notify you when new updates are available. It's a
good idea to check for updates for your security-related programs first, and
then for the programs or devices you use most often.
See also
- Updates: frequently asked questions
- Get security updates for Windows
- Keep Windows Defender definitions up to date
Get security updates for Windows
Security updates for Windows
can help protect against new and ongoing threats to your privacy and your
computer. The best way to get security updates is to turn on Windows automatic updating and stay informed about
security issues.
Turn on Windows automatic updating
When you turn on automatic updating, Windows
can automatically install important updates (including security updates) and
recommended updates for your computer as Microsoft
releases them. For more information, see Turn automatic
updating on or off and How can I tell
if my computer is up to date?
Stay informed about the latest security issues
To learn about new security updates, find how-to articles and
security tips, and get answers to security-related questions, go to the Microsoft
Security at Home website for the free, monthly Security Newsletter for Home
Users from Microsoft.
To learn how Microsoft monitors and responds to security issues,
go to the Microsoft
Security Response Center website. It offers tools such as an alert service,
monthly webcast, blog, and Really Simple Syndication (RSS) feeds to
help you stay current with security-related updates and information for Windows.
See also
- Understanding Windows automatic updating
- Updates: frequently asked questions
- Keep Windows Defender definitions up to date
- Keeping computers on a network up to date
Security and privacy features in Internet Explorer
Internet Explorer offers a number of features to help protect
your security and privacy when you browse the web.
What
security features does Internet Explorer have?
Internet Explorer includes the following security features:
·
Phishing Filter, which can help
protect you from online phishing attacks, fraud, and spoofed websites. For
more information, see Phishing
Filter: frequently asked questions.
·
Protected Mode, which can help
protect you from websites that try to save files or install programs on your
computer. For more information, see What does
Internet Explorer protected mode do?
·
Pop-up Blocker, which can help
block most pop-up windows. For more information, see Internet
Explorer Pop-up Blocker: frequently asked questions.
·
Add-on Manager, which lets you
disable or allow web browser add-ons and delete unwanted ActiveX controls. For more information, see How do browser
add-ons affect my computer?
·
Notification when a website is
trying to download files or software to your computer.
·
Digital signatures, which tell you
who published a file and whether it has been altered since it was digitally
signed. For more information, see What is a
digital signature?
·
A 128-bit secure (SSL) connection
for using secure websites. This helps Internet Explorer create an encrypted connection with websites run by banks,
online stores, medical sites, or other organizations that handle sensitive
customer information. For more information, see How to know if
an online transaction is secure.
Which
security features are turned on when I first use Internet Explorer?
By default, Internet Explorer is set to provide a level of
security that can help protect you against common threats, such as spyware or other types of malware, when browsing the web. These settings can
help protect against known security threats, such as websites installing
add-ons or other programs without your knowledge.
How
can I protect my privacy when I'm online?
Internet Explorer provides the following features that can help
protect your privacy when you're online:
·
Privacy settings that specify how
your computer handles cookies. For more information, see Change
Internet Explorer Privacy settings.
·
Privacy alerts that let you know
when you try to go to a website that doesn't meet the criteria in your privacy
settings.
·
The ability to view a website's
privacy statement. For more information, see Online
privacy: frequently asked questions.
Why
am I getting a message that reads "Your security setting level puts your
computer at risk"?
You are getting this message because certain security settings
are at a lower level than is recommended. By default, Internet Explorer has a
minimum level for some settings that can help protect your computer from
websites that are trying to install malicious or unwanted software without your
knowledge or permission.
How
do I know which settings are not at recommended levels?
To see which security settings are not at recommended levels,
follow these steps:
To view Internet Explorer security settings
2. Click the Tools button, and then click Internet Options.
3. Click the Security tab.
4. Click the Internet icon, and then click Custom level.
Settings that are not at recommended
levels are highlighted in red.
Security settings set below recommended levels
What is changed when I click "Fix Settings for Me" on the Information
bar when my computer is at risk?
When you click Fix Settings for Me on the Information bar,
Internet Explorer will reset the security settings that put your computer at
risk back to their recommended settings. To see your security settings, follow
these steps:
To view Internet Explorer security settings
2. Click the Tools button, and then click Internet Options.
3. Click the Security tab.
4. Click the Internet icon, and then click Custom level.
Settings that are not at recommended
levels are highlighted in red.
How
do I change my Internet Explorer security settings?
To change your Internet Explorer security settings
2. Click the Tools button, and then click Internet Options.
3. Click the Security tab.
4. Click the Internet icon.
5. Do one of the following:
o
To pick a preset security level,
drag the slider.
o
To change individual security
settings, click Custom level. Change the settings as
desired and click OK when you are done.
o
To set Internet Explorer back to
the default security level, click Default level.
6. When you are finished making changes to the security settings, click OK.
How
do I change my Internet Explorer privacy settings?
To change your Internet Explorer privacy settings
2. Click the Tools button, and then click Internet Options.
3. Click the Privacy tab.
4. Under Settings, do any of the following:
o
To pick a preset security level
for cookies, drag the slider.
o
To allow or block cookies from
specific websites, click Sites.
o
To load a customized settings
file, click Import. These are files that modify the rules
that Internet Explorer uses handle cookies. Since these files can override
default settings, you should only import them if you know and trust the source.
5. When you are finished making changes to your privacy settings, click OK.
Where
can I find more information about protecting my computer and my privacy when
I'm online?
Visit the Microsoft
Security website or the Microsoft Protect
your PC website.
See also
- Change Internet Explorer Privacy settings
- Cookies: frequently asked questions
- Phishing Filter: frequently asked questions
- Internet Explorer Pop-up Blocker: frequently asked questions
- How do browser add-ons affect my computer
- What does Internet Explorer protected mode do?
Cookies: frequently asked questions
Here are answers to some common questions about cookies.
What
are cookies used for?
Websites use cookies to offer a personalized experience to users
and to gather information about website use. Many websites also use cookies to
store information that provides a consistent experience between sections of the
site, such as a shopping cart or customized pages. With a trusted website,
cookies can enrich your experience by allowing the site to learn your
preferences or allowing you to skip having to sign in every time you go to the
website. However, some cookies, such as those saved by banner ads, might put
your privacy at risk by tracking sites you visit.
Can
I block cookies?
Yes, you can block or allow cookies on all websites or you can
choose which websites' cookies are allowed. For more information, see Block or allow
cookies.
Should
I block all cookies?
Not necessarily. Blocking all cookies can help protect your
privacy, but it might limit your experience on some websites. Be selective
about which websites you allow cookies for. You can start by blocking all
cookies, then allow cookies as needed for websites that you trust.
How
do I delete cookies?
To delete cookies
2. Click the Tools button, and then click Internet Options.
3. On the General tab, under Browsing
history, click Delete.
4. Click Delete Cookies, and then click Yes.
5. Click Close, and then click OK.
Note
·
Deleting all cookies might cause
some webpages to work incorrectly.
What
are Temporary cookies?
Temporary, or session,
cookies are removed from your computer after you close Internet Explorer.
Websites use them to store temporary information, such as items in your
shopping cart.
What
are Persistent cookies?
Persistent, or saved,
cookies remain on your computer after you close Internet Explorer. Websites use
them to store information, such as your sign-in name and password, so that you
don't have to sign in each time you go to a particular site. Persistent cookies
can remain on your computer for days, months, or even years.
What
are First-party cookies?
First-party cookies come from the
website that you're viewing and can be either persistent or temporary. Websites
might use these cookies to store information that they'll reuse the next time
you go to that site.
What
are Third-party cookies?
Third-party cookies come from other
websites' advertisements (such as pop-up or banner ads) on the website that
you're viewing. Websites might use these cookies to track your web use for
marketing purposes.
See also
Delete webpage history
As you browse the web, Internet Explorer stores information about
the websites you visit and information that you're frequently asked to provide
(for example, your name and address). The following is a list of the type of
information that Internet Explorer stores:
·
Temporary Internet files
·
Cookies
·
A history of the websites you've
visited
·
Information that you've entered
into websites or the Address bar (this includes things such as your name,
address, and the website addresses that you've visited before)
·
Saved web passwords
·
Temporary information stored by
browser add-ons.
Usually, it's helpful to have this information stored on your
computer because it can improve web browsing speed or automatically provide
information so you don't have to type it in over and over. You might want to
delete that information if you're cleaning up your computer or are using a
public computer and do not want any of your personal information to be left
behind.
To
delete all information
2. Click the Tools button, and then click Delete Browsing History.
3. Click Delete all, and then click Yes.
To
delete a specific category of information
2. Click the Tools button, and then click Delete Browsing History.
3. Click the Delete button next to the category of
information you want to delete, click Yes, and then click
Close.
Notes
·
You should close Internet Explorer
when you're done to clear cookies that are still in memory from your current
browsing session. This is especially important when using a public or kiosk
computer.
·
Deleting all browsing history does
not delete your list of favorites or subscribed feeds. It only deletes
temporary files, browsing history, cookies, saved form information, and saved
passwords.
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