To fix Windows Firewall blocking a program or game, first allow the app through the firewall by opening Windows Defender Firewall, clicking "Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall," changing settings, adding the program’s .exe file, and checking both Private and Public if needed. 2. For multiplayer games requiring specific ports, open them manually via Advanced Settings by creating a new inbound rule for the required TCP or UDP port, such as TCP 25565 for Minecraft or UDP 7777 for Ark, ensuring only trusted ports are opened. 3. Temporarily disable the firewall only for testing by turning it off in the firewall settings, testing the program, and re-enabling it immediately to avoid security risks. This typically occurs when running a new internet-connected program, after game updates, antivirus scans, or switching network types, and the safest long-term solution is adding trusted programs to the allowed list while also checking third-party antivirus firewalls if present.
Windows Firewall is blocking a program or game? Don’t worry — this is common, especially with games or third-party apps that need internet access. The firewall is just doing its job by blocking unknown connections. Here’s how to fix it quickly and safely.
? 1. Allow the Program Through Windows Firewall
The easiest fix is to manually allow the program in the firewall settings.
Steps:
- Press Windows S, type “Windows Defender Firewall”, and open it.
- Click on “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall” (on the left).
- Click the “Change settings” button (you’ll need admin rights).
- Click “Allow another app”.
- Browse and find the executable (.exe) file of the game or program (usually in
C:\Program Files,C:\Program Files (x86), or your game folder like Steam’ssteamapps\common). - Select the .exe and click Add.
- Make sure both Private and Public boxes are checked if you want it to work on all networks (Private is usually enough for home).
- Click OK to save.
? Tip: If the app is already listed but blocked, just check the boxes next to it instead of adding it again.
? 2. For Games: Open Both TCP and UDP Ports (If Needed)
Some multiplayer games need specific ports open, not just the app allowed.
Example (for games like Minecraft, Ark, etc.):
- You may need to open ports like:
- TCP: 25565 (Minecraft)
- UDP: 7777, 27015 (common for game servers)
- To open a port:
- In Windows Firewall, go to Advanced settings.
- Click Inbound Rules > New Rule.
- Choose Port > TCP or UDP > enter the port number.
- Select Allow the connection.
- Apply to Domain, Private, Public as needed.
- Give it a name like “Minecraft Server”.
?? Only open ports you know are safe. Don’t leave unnecessary ports open.
? 3. Temporarily Disable Firewall (For Testing Only)
If you’re not sure if the firewall is the issue:
- Go to Windows Defender Firewall.
- Click Turn Windows Firewall on or off (left panel).
- Turn it off for both private and public networks temporarily.
- Test the program or game.
- If it works, re-enable the firewall and go back to Step 1.
? Never leave the firewall off long-term — it protects your PC.
? Why This Happens
- First time running a program that uses the internet.
- Game updates that install new executables.
- Antivirus or Windows Security re-enabled firewall after a scan.
- Using a home network vs. public network (firewall is stricter on public).
? Final Tips
- Always verify the .exe file is from a trusted source before allowing it.
- If using a third-party antivirus (like Norton, McAfee), it might have its own firewall — check there too.
- Some games require both the launcher and the main .exe to be allowed.
Basically, just add the app to the firewall’s allowed list — it’s quick and safe if you know what you’re running.
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