Your Windows Firewall helps keep your computer safe by controlling what network traffic can come in or go out. This keeps hackers and unwanted programs from getting in.

In Windows 11, you can view and change your firewall settings easily using the Windows Security app. You can also back up your firewall settings to save them, and restore them later if needed — like when you switch computers or fix problems.

Backing Up and Restoring Firewall Settings Using Windows Security

Here’s how you can save (backup) and restore your firewall settings using the Windows Security app:

1. Open Settings: Click the Start button (Windows icon), then click Settings.

2. Click on Privacy & security on the left, then click Windows Security.

3. Click the Open Windows Security button.

4. In the Windows Security app, click Firewall & network protection. You can also open it quickly by clicking this link if your PC supports it: Firewall & network protection.

5. Scroll down and click Advanced settings.

6. A new window called Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security will open. On the right side, click Export Policy to save your settings.

Choose where you want to save the file on your computer (like your Desktop), type a name (e.g., FirewallBackup.wfw), and click Save.

To restore your settings later, come back to this window and click Import Policy, then select your saved file.

Backup and Restore Firewall Settings Using Command Prompt

If you prefer using commands, you can back up and restore your firewall settings with these simple steps:

1. Open the Windows Terminal app as administrator:
   • Click Start, type Windows Terminal, right-click it, and choose Run as administrator.
   • In Windows Terminal, make sure you are in the Command Prompt or PowerShell tab.
2. To backup (export) your firewall settings, type this command and press Enter:
   

   netsh advfirewall export "%userprofile%DesktopFirewallBackup.wfw"

   
   

   This saves the backup file on your Desktop.
   

3. To restore (import) firewall settings, run this command (change the path if your file is somewhere else):
   

   netsh advfirewall import "%userprofile%DesktopFirewallBackup.wfw"

That’s it! Your firewall settings are now backed up or restored.

Summary

• Backing up your firewall settings helps keep your computer safe and saves time if you need to fix problems.
• You can back up and restore using the easy Windows Security app or by typing commands.
• Keep your backup files in a safe place so no one else can access your firewall settings.
• Knowing both methods gives you more control over your computer’s security.