Solved How do I firewall IE whilst allowing through other browsers?

[ghostofzyzz]

Hi

I'm using Windows 7 starter and would like to configure the firewall to disallow Internet Explorer, but to allow any other browser through.

I've tried two approaches: allowing programs by default and then adding a disallow rule, and denying programs by default and then adding an allow rule for each browser.

In the case of allowing by default, IE continues to be able to get access to the internet even though I have set a deny rule.

And when I deny, no browser can connect, even if when allow rules have been set for them.

When adding the rules, I am careful to use the properties windows from each program to find its location in the file system and I have also created rules for inbound connectivity, just in case that was the problem.

What am I neglecting to do?

Regards


ghostofzyzz :huh:

 

[DustSailor]

Hello ghost, and welcome to Sevenforums!

I understand that you may not be fond of IE. If you would like to disable it, go into uninstall programs (control panel)>turn windows features off (found on the upper left hand side of the window). Uncheck IE.

I prefer IE9 myself, but do not know a way to use the firewall to deny it access to the internet. IE used to be required to install updates (which are very much needed for added security and fixes to problems/incompatabilities), but I do not know if it is still required for updates. I would recommend keeping it enabled (what harm could come from not using it?), but it is up to you. Let me know how it goes!

 

[ghostofzyzz]

Not an option...

Thanks Dust

It's not for me however, it's for a client, and the client is always right!

Their specific request is for I.E. to be firewalled whilst other browsers pass through.

It is possible to firewall IE, however, the only way I have found that works so far (default deny all) also denies all other browers. I have been unable to create exception rules for them that work, leading me to believe that I'm doing something wrong.

Regards


Ghost

 

[ghostofzyzz]

Is everyone on Easter break or is this a bug that I have identified?

 

[ghostofzyzz]

Fixed

I fixed it myself.

 

[DustSailor]

Hey ghost, if you can, please explain how in case someone else comes across the same problem.

Happy you were able to figure it out!

 

[ghostofzyzz]

I restarted the computer after making the rule. I can't test it now, but I believe this may have had the same effect that re-starting the windows firewall service would have had I of gone into Services and tried that.