5 Best Free Firewall Software For Windows PC 2023

When it comes to computer security, we place a lot of emphasis on antivirus and malware removal tools. But, there’s one more piece of the pie that we can’t ignore: Firewalls.
  1. A firewall is a barrier that sits between your computer and the Internet.
  2. It filters unwanted traffic or activities in order to safeguard your PC against hackers and cyber-criminals.
  3. Windows comes with a perfectly fine built-in firewall. However, a third-party firewall software will make it easy to configure rules and offers better security.

5 Best Free Firewall Software To Block All Internet Attacks

How We Tested? Firewalls are arguably one of the cumbersome software products to use and have a reputation for causing user angst. We evaluated each free Firewall software for functionality, ease of use, performance, and reliability on our test system running Windows 10.

After a lot of trials and testing, we bring you the top free firewall software available on the Internet today!

OS Compatibility – Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.

1. Malwarebytes Windows Firewall Control

Malwarebytes Windows Firewall Control

If you are looking for a no-nonsense and lightweight program that makes use of the powerful built-in Windows firewall and makes it better, then this is the software for you.

  • It configures the Windows Firewall to be more secure and offers multiple filtering modes to choose from.
  • You can allow or block a program to connect to the Internet with just a click.
  • You get full support for creating, modifying, and deleting Windows Firewall rules with ease. Also, rules can be locked by password protecting the program.
  • It disables the ability of other programs to tamper with the Windows Firewall.
  • The intuitive user interface is quickly accessible through a system tray icon. Well, it’s designed to be used by beginners.
  • Global hotkeys are supported, and various shortcut keys are available.
  • It runs only the essential services and processes, hence does not affect the system performance.
  • It’s the best tool to manage the native Windows Firewall. This software takes something that is already there and makes it even better.
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2. TinyWall

TinyWall Firewall

TinyWall is designed to improve Windows’ own firewall features without requiring any expert knowledge.

  • Scans inbound and outbound connections and renders essential security.
  • It has an auto-learning mode and also allows you to password protect the settings.
  • An application scanner is included to scan your PC for programs that can be added to the safe list.
  • A Connections monitor shows all the active processes that have a connection to the Internet as well as any open ports.
  • You can choose a process, file, or service manually and give it firewall permissions that are permanent or temporary.
  • TinyWall blocks known locations that harbor viruses and worms. Can lock down the hosts file from unwanted changes.
  • It does not display tons of notifications and prompts like most other free firewall software.
  • Simple and clean interface. You can easily modify and personalize its settings. Good for beginners.
  • TinyWall is not loaded with features. Alerts generated by it are fairly easy to ignore.
  • You will have to manually whitelist even popular Windows applications. So, if you notice a certain program, which requires the Internet to be not working correctly, check the firewall.
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3. ZoneAlarm Free Firewall

ZoneAlarm Free Firewall Software

ZoneAlarm Free Firewall is one of the oldest and most downloaded free firewall software for Windows.

  • It can hide open ports and isolate suspicious traffic.
  • Connects with DefenseNet to get real-time security updates about emerging threats.
  • It allows you to choose which applications and programs are permitted to access the Internet.
  • ZoneAlarm adds an extra layer of protection to your connections when you connect to public WiFi hotspots.
  • It assesses the security of your home WiFi network to improve protection from attacks.
  • You can also password protect settings to prevent unauthorized changes.
  • It has a simple and interactive interface that can be easily customized as per your preferences.
  • Choose the ‘Custom Install’ option during setup and read through each step carefully to avoid installing anything but ZoneAlarm Free Firewall.
  • The program sometimes has conflicts with other third-party antivirus programs.
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4. Comodo Firewall

Comodo Firewall

If you are looking for a highly advanced and top-level firewall security system, then Comodo Free Firewall should be your choice.

  • Comodo monitors both inbound and outbound traffic. It prevents any malicious software from sending your private data to hackers and cybercriminals.
  • The system uses AI to build up a profile of normal operating behavior on your computer so that it can block suspicious activity.
  • It’s easy to control permissions for different networks, and you can create rules for specific programs.
  • The Rating Scan feature scans all running processes on your system to indicate how trustworthy they are. It is useful in spotting malware processes.
  • Comodo Free Firewall offers a Sandbox environment, meaning that if you download some random software over the Internet, you can first test it for hidden viruses.
  • The program offers a wealth of bonus features, including a hardened browser, ad-blocker, game mode, and secure DNS lookup.
  • The built-in antivirus makes Comodo more resilient against the latest malware attacks.
  • This free firewall is best suitable for advanced users. Beginners may be a bit overwhelmed.
  • Comodo Free Firewall comes bundled with a lot of unwanted extras. Take some time to go through each step of the setup and only install what’s necessary.
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5. Free Firewall

Free Firewall

Free Firewall is a full-featured professional firewall that protects your computer against the threats of the Internet.

  • It controls every program on your computer, trying to access the Internet.
  • It features multiple modes that you can choose as per your preference to prevent threats.
  • By default, Free Firewall blocks viruses and botnets by disabling data transmission in the background.
  • Imports all of the installed processes and services on your computer and then categorizes them with color codes.
  • Protects your privacy and personal information by preventing web tracking while surfing and collecting telemetry.
  • The Cooperative mode allows Free Firewall to be operated along with the built-in Windows Firewall or any other firewall.
  • The user interface is optimized for touch-sensitive devices. Feel free to use it on tablets and touch-enabled Windows laptops.
  • Further, Free Firewall needs some more refinement.
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A Firewall Alone Is Not Enough!

While a firewall can guard against intrusions, it’s not a replacement for antivirus software, and you should consider running virus protection, whether you have a firewall or not.

To maximize the level of security on your computer, you should:

  • Use a firewall.
  • Install antivirus software.
  • Use a VPN service when connecting to public WiFi networks.
  • Do not open email attachments or links from unknown sources.
  • Use strong passwords for your accounts.

Let us know your views on firewalls from the comments below.

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