Windows 7 - Free Software Firewalls for Windows 7

Comodo Firewall Pro 3 v4.0 (32 and 64 Bit)
Features:
Host Intrusion Prevention System to protect system files
Blocks viruses and malware
Friendly GUI
Highly granular configuration options
Understandable and informative alerts
Wizard-based detection of trusted zones
Great level of protection
Easy of options for beginners



PC Tools Firewall Plus v6.0 (32 Bit)
Features:
Application monitoring
Detects Trojans, backdoors, keyloggers and other malware
Powerful default settings
Advanced packet filtering rules, including IPv6 support
Easy installation and immediate and automatic ongoing protection



Outpost Firewall v2009 (32 bit)
Features:
Standard packet and application filtering
Advanced protection against illegal program activity



Zone Alarm Firewall v9.1 (32 bit)
Features:
Basic network and program firewall
Simple interface and very easy to learn
Gaming mode



Private Firewall v7.0.20.37 (32 and 64 bit)
Features:
Advanced packet filtering
Process Detection
System Anomaly Detection
Intelligent Tray Alerts
Stealth Mode
Port Tracking and Reporting
Email Anomaly Detection



Windows Firewall (32 and 64 bit)
Windows Firewall helps you protect your computer against many types of malicious software.



This is for information only not for having debates about which is best.
It is not an exhaustive list. If the program you are looking for is not listed, click here for information.
Thank you

Please keep this thread as a resource for other members & guests.

This is not directed at any member but a general statement

If you are having issues with a particular product please either start another thread or ask your question in one of the many threads on this subject that are already open.

Just a note: Please do NOT rely on Matousec test when you search for the firewall. The reason is simple Matousec tests all suites and firewalls which have HIPS implemented module.
The most of his tests - testing security software against leaks, and HIPS abilities.

This is why in his previous tests Look 'n' Stop - very powerful and strong PURE firewall (without HIPS module) took almost the latest position (~2% if my memory serves me well).
Pure firewall do what every firewall should do - filters packets, that's all.

So, if you are looking for Firewall, pure Firewall without addons like HIPS, anti-, etc - do NOT rely on Matousec tests.

Nice list and thank you. Usual caveats about Comodo - see below. Make up your own mind
Dark side of COMODO...

Be aware that even some security products have taken to including pre-checked toolbars and other add-ons. For example:

-- Zone Alarm includes a pre-checked option to install ZoneAlarm Spy Blocker, which is a renamed version of the Ask Toolbar.

-- PC Tools Firewall Plus includes the Google Toolbar and Threatfire

-- Comodo includes the HopSurf Toolbar (another IAC product which replaced the Ask Toolbar)

(See Calendar of Updates, Installers Hall of Shame (Unwanted Add-on)).

Good point Corrine. Many free programs are doing this now so yes, users need to ensure they pay attention to what they are agreeing to when clicking "Accept"

Thanks as always Corrine. What I find really worrying is the annotation used during the install procedure. Spy Blocker: I would quite easily mistake that as part and parcel of ZoneAlarm's firewall setup, inherent to the working of the program

Windows 7 Firewall Control has worked very well for me. It just adds functionality to the built-in firewall.

Windows 7 Firewall Control : Sphinx Software

Personally, I have found that the Windows 7 Firewall works great "out of the box" with the default settings. The only program it questioned permission to access the Internet was Trillian.

You are right on target. I always use a custom install and read very carefully before I check or uncheck anything.