If you use Windows XP, CUIT recommends that you use on the built-in Windows XP firewall to help protect your computer from viruses and worms.

These instructions apply to versions of Windows XP that have not been upgraded to Service Pack 2. With Service Pack 2, the firewall can be managed from the Security Center, located on the Control Panel.

1. Click on the Start button (most often in the bottom left corner of your screen), and then choose Control Panel. If you do not see the Control Panel listed, choose Settings instead, and then choose Control Panel from the that submenu.
2. If a screen comes up that says "Pick a category," please click Switch to Classic View on the left side of the screen. Otherwise, please go to step 3.
3. Double click on Network Connections. This should bring up a list of your available network connections.
4. Right click on the Local Area Connection. This should bring up a small menu. Left click on Properties. This will bring up the Local Area Connection Properties window. Note: You may instead have a connection called Local Area Connection 2 (or any other number). Right click on that connection instead, and choose Properties from the menu to continue.
5. Click on the Advanced tab at the top of the window.
6. Place a check mark in the box labeled "Protect my computer and network by limiting or preventing access to this computer from the Internet."
7. Click OK.
8. Now, it is necessary to repeat this for all other connections labeled as Local Area Connection or Wireless Network Connection. Right click on the connection and then left click on Properties from the menu. Then, repeat steps 5-7 for that connection. Make sure to keep repeating this until all connections labeled as Local Area Connection or Wireless Network Connection have been modified.

Built-in Firewalls

To reach this page quickly in the future, use the keyword sp1firewall.

Send reports of security incidents, attacks, or questions to security@columbia.edu