If the program cannot work properly due to being blocked by the Windows firewall, it can be solved by adding allowed exceptions. 1. First confirm whether the program has been blocked, check whether there is a network access error message or check the list of allowed applications in the Windows Security Center. 2. Enter the firewall settings through the Control Panel or Windows Security App and select "Allow apps to pass through the firewall". 3. If the program is not in the list, click "Change settings" and select "Allow other applications", browse and add the program's .exe file, and check the "Dedicated" and "Public" network types at the same time. 4. If the problem still exists, you may need to check whether the correct executable file is selected, whether there are multiple program versions, or whether third-party security software interferes with the rules. Temporary shutdown of the firewall can be used for testing, but is not recommended for long-term use. After completing these steps, the program should communicate normally.

If a program isn't working properly because it's being blocked by Windows Firewall, you can allow it through the firewall in just a few steps. The key is to make sure the app is added as an exception so it can communicate without being restricted.

Check if the Program Is Already Blocked

When a program tries to access the network and gets blocked, Windows often shows a notification asking whether you want to allow it through the firewall. If you missed that prompt or it doesn't show up again, don't worry — you can manually add the app later.
To start checking:

• Look for any recent error messages from the app related to network access
• Try running the program and see if it behaves like it's offline or can't connect
• You can also check the Windows Security app to review allowed apps

This step helps confirm that the issue is actually related to firewall settings and not something else like antivirus or network permissions.

Open Windows Firewall Settings

You can reach the right settings either through the Control Panel or directly via Windows Security (on newer Windows 10 and 11 versions). Here's how:

• Press Windows S , type firewall , then choose Allow an app through firewall
• In some systems, you might need to go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Firewall & network protection , then click “Allow an app through the firewall”

Once there, you'll see a list of programs that are currently allowed to bypass the firewall. If your app isn't listed, you'll need to add it manually.

Add the Program to the Allowed List

If the app isn't already on the list, follow these steps:

• Click Change settings at the top right (you may need admin rights)
• Then click Allow another app…
• Browse to locate the executable (.exe) file for the program
• Select it, and click Add
  Make sure both Private and Public checkboxes are marked unless you only want the rule to apply on certain networks. This ensures the program works whether you're on home Wi-Fi, work network, or public hotspot.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes even after adding the app, it still gets blocked. A few common reasons:

• The wrong executable was selected — double-check the .exe path
• Multiple versions of the same program exist — try removing old entries before re-adding
• Group policies or third-party security software might override Windows Firewall rules

If things still aren't working, temporarily disabling the firewall (not recommended long-term) can help test if it's the root cause. But be sure to turn it back on afterward.

Basically that's it. It's not complicated once you know where to look, but it's easy to miss a small detail like the correct network profile or executable file.

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