How to Reset Default Firewall Settings in Windows 11

Why Reset Your Firewall?

Resetting Windows Firewall settings returns your computer’s protection to its original state from when you first received it. Consider resetting these firewall settings in Windows 11 if you accidentally changed them or if a program causes problems. This firewall reset ensures your computer’s protection works correctly and helps fix issues where security rules might block needed apps.

On Windows 11, you can use the Windows Security app to view and manage your firewall. You can turn it on or off anytime.

Method 1Using the Windows Security App

For a reset of your Windows Firewall settings, use the Windows Security app. This method guides you through the process without requiring deep technical knowledge. You can quickly restore default protection by opening the Windows Security app and following a few steps.

1. Click on Start and select Settings from the ⊞ Start menu.

2. In ⚙️ the Settings app, click Privacy & security and then click the Windows Security tile.

3. Click the Open Windows Security button.

4. In the Windows Security app, select Firewall & network protection or use this shortcut: Firewall & network protection

5. Click on the Restore firewalls to default link at the bottom.

6. In the pop-up window, click Restore defaults to restore the firewall settings.

7. Click Yes when asked if you want to reset the firewall to default.

Method 2Using Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security

For more control, consider the Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security tool. This offers more detailed options than the basic settings, letting you manage your firewall rules more precisely. If you need to fine-tune your firewall or reset specific rules, this advanced method is ideal.

1. Open Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security (type wf.msc in 🔍 the search box).
2. On the left side, select Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security on Local Computer.
3. On the right side under Actions, click Restore Default Policy to restore the firewall to its defaults.

Method 3Using Command Prompt

This method uses the command line. Here’s how:

1. ⚠️ Admin Required: Open Command Prompt as administrator and select the Command Prompt tab.
2. Type and run this command:

netsh advfirewall reset

This command resets the firewall to its default settings.

Method 4Using PowerShell

PowerShell is another way to reset your firewall. Here’s how:

1. ⚠️ Admin Required: Open PowerShell as administrator and select the PowerShell tab.
2. Type and run this command:

(New-Object -ComObject HNetCfg.FwPolicy2).RestoreLocalFirewallDefaults()

That’s it! Your firewall is now reset to default.

Summary

You can easily reset your Windows Firewall settings using either the simple Windows Security app or the more advanced Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security tool. Both methods help restore your firewall to its default state, ensuring your computer’s protection is up to date and working correctly. Pick the method that feels most comfortable for you.

• Windows Security App: The easiest method. Just click a few buttons.
• Advanced Security: Offers more detailed options for advanced users.
• Command Prompt: A quick method using a simple command (requires admin rights).
• PowerShell: Another command-line option (requires admin rights).

Why This Matters: Resetting your firewall helps protect your computer from unauthorized access and threats. If unwanted changes were made to your firewall, these methods let you quickly fix the problem and get your security back on track.

Choose whichever method you feel most comfortable with. All four methods work well and will get your firewall back to normal.