When launching a program on a Windows computer, you may encounter the “Windows Defender Firewall has blocked some features of this app” security alert. While you can click “Allow access” to proceed, it’s not doing anything or going back in circles, leading to frustration.
But there are fixes we can provide for this issue. Just stay tuned.
What’s Causing This Windows Defender Firewall Has Blocked Some Features of This App?
Windows Defender Firewall monitors applications attempting to connect to the Internet and blocks them by default the first time they try. It displays a security alert, and you can click “Allow access” if you trust the app or “Cancel” to keep it blocked.
The “Windows Defender Firewall has blocked some features of this app” notification appears when an application attempts to access your computer’s network or internet connection without proper permissions—this security measure safeguards against unauthorized access.
However, in some cases, malware operating covertly like servers can trigger similar firewall alerts, indirectly causing notifications to pop up on your system.
If the firewall frequently blocks trusted apps, you may need to investigate for potential issues, such as dubious plugins in your web browser or VPN clients causing alerts.
Here are a few steps to stop your PC’s Windows Firewall security alert message.
Fix: Windows Defender Firewall Blocked A Program
If you’re encountering the “Windows Defender Firewall has blocked some features of this app” message frequently, here are several steps to resolve the issue:
Run the Windows Firewall Troubleshooter
The Windows Firewall Troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix problems with your firewall settings. Here’s how to run it:
- Open Settings: Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
- Go to Update & Security: Click on “Update & Security.”
- Select Troubleshoot: Click on “Troubleshoot” from the sidebar.
- Run Troubleshooter: Scroll down and find “Windows Firewall.” Click on it and then click “Run the troubleshooter.”
Follow the on-screen instructions to let the troubleshooter detect and fix any issues.
Scan Your System for Malware
Certain malicious software can operate as servers, potentially triggering firewall alerts on your system. If you suspect your computer may be infected, it’s advisable to perform a comprehensive scan using a reputable antivirus program to detect and remove any malware present.
Malware can interfere with your system and cause false security alerts. It’s essential to ensure your system is clean.
- Open Windows Security: Press Win + I, go to “Update & Security,” and click “Windows Security.”
- Run a Full Scan: Click on “Virus & threat protection,” then select “Scan options” and choose “Full scan.” Click “Scan now.”
- Wait for the scan to complete and follow any recommendations to remove threats.
While Windows offers built-in security features, many users enhance their protection with third-party solutions. If malware is firing up, this “Windows Defender Firewall has blocked some features of this app” error was overlooked by Windows Defender.
Consider using Fortect, an extensive malware defense program that scans your system vigorously for malware. Once it’s done scanning, it will notify you of the threat, fix it, eliminate it, and optimize your PC.
Download and Install Fortect now.
Disable Your VPN Client
VPN clients can sometimes trigger security alerts due to the nature of redirecting traffic.
- Disconnect VPN: Open your VPN client and disconnect from the VPN.
- Temporarily Disable: If necessary, disable the VPN client by right-clicking its icon in the system tray and selecting “Exit” or “Disable.”
Check if the firewall alert persists after disabling the VPN.
Allow the App Through the Windows Defender Firewall
If you trust the application that’s being blocked, you can manually allow it through the firewall.
- Open Firewall Settings: Press Win + R, type control firewall.cpl, and press Enter.
- Allow an App: Click on “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.”
- Change Settings: Click on “Change settings” to enable modifying the list.
- Find and Allow the App: Locate the app in the list and check both the “Private” and “Public” boxes next to it. Click “Allow another app” to add it if it’s not listed.
Click “OK” to save the changes.
Restore Windows Defender Firewall Settings to Default
Resetting the firewall settings to default can resolve configuration issues causing frequent alerts.
- Open Firewall Settings: Press Win + R, type control firewall.cpl, and press Enter
- Restore Defaults: Click on “Restore defaults” from the sidebar.
- Confirm Reset: Click “Restore defaults” again and confirm any prompts.
Restoring the firewall to its default settings can help fix any misconfigurations causing the problem.
By following these steps, you can address the issue of Windows Defender Firewall blocking programs and reduce the frequency of security alerts.
