Windows 10 Defender Firewall complaints
Windows 10 Defender Firewall complaints
Windows Defender firewall isn't working properly. I set up a new Dell laptop for a customer, applied all updates, joined it to the domain, and checked network settings. Connectivity issues appeared: network share browsing, IP configuration, PING to DNS, RDP, and file sharing all failed. The laptop was rebooted multiple times, and the firewall was disabled. What resolved the problem was adjusting the firewall settings to allow specific apps through, checking the "File and Printer" box. The frustration came from seeing blocked PING/RDP/file sharing despite the firewall being off.
As soon as someone sets up Windows Firewall rules with GPO, funny things happen. At a customer endpoint, adjusting the firewall rules doesn’t take effect. They appear in the list as active but remain inactive because the domain GPO rules completely override local settings.
I dislike it when a fresh setup requires you to turn on discoverability just so you can ping the interface. If you forget, it’s frustrating to realize you can’t reach the NIC from another machine. It’s annoying, isn’t it? Why does this always feel so difficult?
Interesting observations here! It also brings up another point... why do MS still include a software firewall in the operating system? Back then, when people connected via modems and similar devices, you needed some defense against online troublemakers... today, most routers come with built-in firewalls, and even public Wi-Fi has protection.
Consider the many public Wi-Fi spots at airports, train stations, coffee shops such as Starbucks... a local firewall would be highly practical.
Additionally, I really appreciate the Defender Style... It integrates security into the system rather than relying on external solutions, so when issues arise you won't face confusion or frustration from multiple troubleshooting steps.