BleepingComputer.com: Windows Firewall

Hi, all

I'm a new member, a complete non-techie, and this is my first post.

In the past I never had to worry about maintaining my PC, but a recent change of direction in my life now means I have to do it myself. Oh well, I'll survive.

As I now need to carry out a lot of news media research online, I decided to checkout my Windows firewall and the first thing I noticed was there are a number of 'hp exceptions' (hpfccopy.exe, hpqcopy.exe, etc.) and Window Media Player Network Sharing Service exceptions.

My problem is I don't know if I need these 'exceptions' or if I should de-select them. What would be the consequences of de-selecting these exceptions?

I apologise in advance if this has been discussed before.

I would appreciate any help or advice.

Phil J., on May 31 2008, 12:27 AM, said:

First off all, Forget about Windows Firewall.

I highly recommend you use COMODO Firewall Pro 3.

Download it, then install, Reboot. This is a very Good Firewall. Read the help file If you need help with it, I am a Global Moderator at the COMODO Forums, I can assist you there!

Thanks,
Josh

I am not associated with Comodo, but certainly suggest avoiding the one in Windows and using a superior application (there are several free firewalls) that allows better management and clearer reporting. However, the question is one about hp exceptions and WMPnetsharing exceptions.
Assuming you have a HP computer, the HP exceptions seem to be connected to digital imaging or printing, as far as I can determine. I see no reason not to allow these. I would need to know more detailed information about the WMP before making any suggestion, but I suspect , in principle, that it could be taken off the list.

Regards,
John

This thread gave the user a workaround and not a solution. I'm actually working through trying to find an answer as to what and why all of these exceptions are as well. Unfortunately not everyone has the luxury of installing a 3rd party firewall, and I think that the Windows firewall is underrated anyway. It should always be enabled.

So is there anyone that has an answer as to what these processes are?

This thread is 2 years old.....