Firewall is a feature of the Windows operating system that acts as a gatekeeper for incoming and outgoing network traffic. It is designed to safeguard your computer by blocking unauthorized access to your system while allowing safe traffic in and out. However, there may be situations where you need to block Internet access to an app. In this blog post, we will go over several methods of how to block Internet access to an app with Firewall in Windows 10. This guide is intended for those who need to restrict an app’s access to the Internet for any reason, such as to conserve bandwidth, maximize speed, or improve privacy and security.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Block Internet Access App with Firewall Windows 10
There are various reasons why you may need to block Internet access to an app in Windows 10. Perhaps you want to prevent a certain app from sending data to the internet, or you want to conserve bandwidth, or you want to improve your privacy and security. Whatever the reason, it is fairly easy to achieve this goal by using Windows Firewall.
Method 1: Using Firewall Rules
Windows Firewall has a built-in feature that allows you to block Internet access to any app. Here are the steps to do so:
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "wf.msc" in the Run box and press Enter to open the Windows Firewall with Advanced Security window.
3. Click on the Outbound Rules option in the left-hand pane.
4. Click on the New Rule option in the right-hand pane.
5. Select the Program option and click Next.
6. Browse to the location of the app you want to block and select it, then click Next.
7. Select the Block the connection option and click Next.
8. Check all the boxes for the type of network you want to block and click Next.
9. Give the rule a name and a description, then click Finish.
Pros:
– It is a built-in feature of Windows Firewall.
– It is easy to set up.
– It allows you to block Internet access to any app you choose.
Cons:
– It requires some technical knowledge to set up.
– It may not be effective against advanced threats.
Method 2: Using Third-Party Firewall Software
There are many third-party firewall software solutions available for Windows 10, some of which offer more advanced features than the built-in Windows Firewall. Some of these software solutions allow you to easily block Internet access to specific apps. Here are the steps to do so using GlassWire Firewall:
1. Download and install GlassWire Firewall from the official website.
2. Launch GlassWire and click on the Firewall tab.
3. Click on the "Ask to connect" option for the app you want to block, then select Block.
4. Click on the Apply button.
Pros:
– Some third-party firewall software solutions offer more features than the built-in Windows Firewall.
– It may be easier to set up and use.
Cons:
– It may require payment for advanced features.
– It may use more system resources than the built-in Windows Firewall.
Method 3: Using a VPN
A VPN, or virtual private network, is a tool that allows you to connect to the Internet securely and anonymously. Some VPN software also provides the ability to block Internet access to specific apps. Here are the steps to do so using NordVPN:
1. Download and install NordVPN from the official website.
2. Launch NordVPN and connect to a server location.
3. Open the Settings menu and click on the "App Kill Switch" option.
4. Find the app you want to block and click on the slider button to turn it off.
Pros:
– It can provide privacy and security in addition to blocking Internet access to specific apps.
– It is easy to set up.
Cons:
– It may require payment for advanced features.
– It may slow down your internet connection.
What to Do If You Can’t Block Internet Access to an App
If for some reason you are unable to block Internet access to an app, there are a few things you can try:
– Uninstall the app if you don’t need it.
– Use an alternative app that does not require Internet access.
– Disable the app’s network access in its own settings.
Bonus Tip
To ensure maximum security and privacy, it is recommended to keep your firewall software and antivirus software up-to-date.
5 FAQs
Q1: How do I know if an app is accessing the Internet?
A: You can use the Task Manager in Windows 10 to see which apps are using the Internet. To do so, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard, then click on the "Performance" tab and select "Open Resource Monitor". From there, click on the "Network" tab to see which apps are using the Internet.
Q2: Can I block an app’s Internet access temporarily?
A: Yes, you can create a firewall rule that specifies the time duration for which an app’s Internet access will be blocked.
Q3: Can I block Internet access to specific websites?
A: Yes, you can create a firewall rule that blocks access to specific websites.
Q4: Will blocking Internet access to an app affect its functionality?
A: It depends on the app. Some apps require Internet access to function properly, while others do not. If you are unsure, it is best to test the app after blocking its Internet access.
Q5: Do I need to restart my computer after creating a firewall rule?
A: No, you do not need to restart your computer after creating a firewall rule.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Windows Firewall provides a simple and effective way to block Internet access to specific apps in Windows 10. However, if you require more advanced features or prefer a third-party solution, there are many third-party firewall software solutions available for Windows 10. Additionally, a VPN may also provide the ability to block Internet access to specific apps and provide additional privacy and security benefits. By using one of these methods, you can maximize your privacy, security, and network performance on your Windows 10 computer.