Why do you need to use a firewall in 2024?

Many people think that using a firewall is an outdated method and an unnecessary hassle. Most users have the standard Windows firewall disabled, because it often prevents them from running games or downloading torrents. We will tell you why you should not neglect the firewall and how to turn it back on.

Is it a firewall or a brandmauer? Or are they the same thing?

You will often see two terms: “brandmauer” and “firewall”. So why use both names? And how do they relate?

Brandmauer is a term that comes from the German language. Historically, the term was used to describe a wall in buildings that prevented the spread of fire. In the digital world, it has taken on a figurative meaning - a protective barrier that blocks unwanted access to data and network traffic.

Firewall, on the other hand, is the original English term that has come into common usage around the world. It denotes the same functions as “brandmauer” and is used to protect against unauthorized access and threats.

Basic firewall functions

A firewall has three main tasks:

• Traffic filtering. The firewall inspects incoming and outgoing traffic and blocks suspicious connections.
• Protection against unauthorized access. Prevents hackers and malware from gaining access to your device.
• Application control. The firewall can block or allow specific applications to access the Internet, providing an additional layer of security.

Types of firewalls

Built in operating systems

These firewalls work at the device level. For example, a Windows firewall protects only the computer and allows you to monitor application activity and network connections.

Network firewalls

Provide protection for all devices connected to your network. These firewalls monitor all traffic and block threats before they reach your devices.

What threats does a firewall protect against?

Phishing 

A firewall helps block sites and links that may try to steal your personal information. For example, bank card numbers.

Backdoor attacks

A firewall detects and blocks “backdoors” left by intruders to re-access your system. Imagine that an attacker got into your PC, for example, through a vulnerability in old software. 

To gain access again, he can install a hidden “text box” (or backdoor) on the system that allows him to log in without authorization in the future. The firewall detects and blocks such hidden access channels.

Hacking and DDoS attacks

The firewall protects against remote hacking attempts and overloading your network with requests.

How do I configure the firewall in Windows 10?

• Click on the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).

• Go to “System and Security”, then select “Windows Firewall”.
• Next, “Turn Windows Firewall on or off”.

• Next, enable the firewall everywhere and click OK.

Done. The firewall is now up and running.

To configure a game and application exception in the Windows 10 firewall, follow these steps:

You can configure exceptions for inbound and outbound connections. To do this:

• On the left side of the window, select “Allow an app or feature through Windows Firewall”.

• Configure an exception for the desired applications.

• Click the “Change settings” button (if active) to edit the list of applications.
• In the list of allowed applications, find the desired application (for example, a game).
• If the application is not in the list, click “Allow another app...” and select the desired program manually.
• Make sure the desired application is checked in the “Private” and/or “Public” columns (depending on the network you are connected to).
• Save your changes.

Now the selected game or application will be able to run through the firewall without restrictions.

A firewall is your first line of defense. It plays an important role in protecting your data and devices.