Windows Firewall - Restore Default Settings

How to Restore Default Windows Firewall Settings in Windows 7 and Windows 8​

   Information

This will show you how to undo all of the changes you have made to the Windows Firewall settings and restore them back to the original default settings in Windows 7 and Windows 8.

   Warning

Restoring the default settings removes all of the Windows Firewall settings that you have made up to that point, for all network (Public and Private) location types. This might cause some programs that you have allowed through the firewall to stop working.

EXAMPLE: Default Windows Firewall Settings
NOTE: These are the On or Off, and notification settings.

EXAMPLE: Default Windows Firewall Exceptions Settings
NOTE: These are the program exceptions that are allowed through Windows Firewall to have internet or network access.

OPTION ONE

To Reset Windows Firewall Settings to Default in Windows Firewall

1. Open the Control Panel (Icons View) in Windows 7 and Windows 8.

2. Click/tap on the Windows Firewall icon.

3. Click/tap on the Restore defaults link in the left pane. (See screenshot below)

4. Click/tap on the Restore defaults button. (See screenshot below)

5. Click/tap on the Yes button to confirm. (See screenshot below)

6. Close the Windows Firewall window when done. (See screenshot below step 3)

OPTION TWO

To Reset Windows Firewall Settings to Default in Command Prompt

1. Open an elevated command prompt in Windows 7 or Windows 8.

2. In the command prompt, copy and paste the command below, and press Enter. (see screenshot below)
netsh advfirewall reset



3. When finished, you can close the elevated command prompt.

   Note

Command information.

netsh advfirewall reset /?

That's it,
Shawn

Related Tutorials

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• How to Turn Windows Firewall On or Off in Windows 7 and Windows 8
• How to Change Windows Firewall Notification Settings in Windows 7 and Windows 8
• How to Add or Remove a Windows Firewall Exception in Windows 7
• How to Create a Windows Firewall Shortcut in Windows 7
• How to Backup and Restore All Windows Firewall Settings

 

[seven2]

restore defaults

Hello Shawn
I tried to set Win 7 native firewall but I think I made some errors.
My question is,"If I click to 'restore daults' will this not allow some programs or just ask me to allow them once again.?"
I want to start from scratch, so to speak.

 

[Brink]

Hello Peter,

This will reset Windows Firewall completely back to it's default settings. If anything loses internet/network connection afterwards, then you could just add it to the exception list for it to regain access again.

If you like, you might try either the free TinyWall or Windows 7 Firewall Control program. It'll help make using Windows Firewall easier.

 

[seven2]

firewalls

That is good advice and much appreciated. The link was very clear.
I assume I remove Windows native firewall before installing the new one?
Thank you

 

[Brink]

Nope. Those programs work with Windows Firewall to help make using it easier. That's all.

 

[seven2]

firewall

You have been very helpful and thank you.

 

[Brink]

You're most welcome Peter.