Step 3: Ensure Windows Firewall is Turned On

A firewall can help prevent malicious attackers from gaining access to your computer through a network or the Internet. By default, Windows (Vista) Firewall is turned on. When the firewall is on, most programs are blocked from communicating through the firewall. If you want to unblock a program, add it to the list of exceptions. For more information about firewalls, see Definitions.

Follow these steps to configure Windows Firewall and ensure it is turned on:

1. Select Start > Control Panel.
2. In the left panel, click Classic View.
3. In the Control Panel window, double-click Windows Firewall.
4. In the Windows Firewall window, ensure Windows Firewall is on. If the firewall is off or you want to unblock a program, click Change settings.
   
   If the User Account Control window appears, click Continue.
5. In the Firewall Settings window, select the General tab.
6. Select On (recommended).
   • If you are making no further changes, click OK.
   • To allow a program to communicate through the firewall, continue with the steps below:
     1. Select the Exceptions tab.
        
     2. Do the following:
        • Uncheck any program or service you DO NOT wish to accept incoming network connections.
        • Check any program or service you DO wish to accept incoming connections.
        • Check Notify me when Windows Firewall blocks a new program.
          Note: If a program you want to allow does not appear in the list, click the Add program... button and Browse for the program.
     3. Click OK to save your changes.

Step 4: Ensure File Sharing is Off