11 Best FREE Firewall Software for Windows (2025)
Oliver Jones
Firewalls are software programs which are used to improve the security of computers. It protects a private network or LAN from unauthorized access. The purpose of having a firewall installed on your computer, phone, or tablet is to protect against malware threats that exist on the internet or other connected networks.
With over 90+ hours of research into 35+ best free firewall software, I have compiled a trusted and insightful list, featuring both free and paid versions. My professional and well-researched article dives into each tool’s features, pros, and cons, offering a comprehensive guide for those seeking a reliable firewall. Read the full article to discover exclusive and credible solutions that may help you choose the right option. Read more…
Firewall Analyzer is a firewall management software. It helps you to detect security vulnerabilities in the firewall policies. It provides real-time visibility into network firewall security.
Best Free Firewall Programs for Windows
| Name | Features | Free Trial | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
Firewall Analyzer |
• Easily get notified about changes made on firewall configuration • User internet activity monitor • Network traffic and bandwidth monitoring |
30-Day Free Trial | Learn More |
 TotalAV |
• Remote Firewall feature allows remote access to your devices • It offers a secure way to surf the web anonymously and encrypt your internet’s traffic |
Download for Free | Learn More |
 GlassWire Firewall |
• You can see your current & past network activity • Detect malware and block badly behaving apps |
Download for Free | Learn More |
 ZoneAlarm |
• You can work invisibly. • It guards your personal data. |
30-Day Free Trial | Learn More |
 Avast Endpoint |
• Prevent dangerous websites, set templates, and group devices • Most comprehensive reports of threats and malware |
30-Day Free Trial | Learn More |
1) Firewall Analyzer
Firewall Analyzer is a high-performing firewall management software that I tested on my devices. It helped me detect any security gaps in the firewall rules. The tool offers real-time insights into network security. As per my experience, it is one of the best tools for maintaining a secure network.
Firewall Policy Management
Real-time VPN and Proxy Server Monitoring
User internet activity monitoring
IDS & IPS for Security
Features:
- Firewall Policy Management: It helps you manage firewall policies efficiently, thus providing a great solution for improved security.
- Policy Change Management: The feature allows you to handle policy changes smoothly. Therefore, it offers a perfect way to avoid configuration issues.
- VPN and Internet Monitoring: You can continuously monitor VPN and internet usage for better control of online activities. I could also easily track user activity with this.
- Compliance Reporting: It helped me generate reports on compliance standards, which are needed to maintain system regulations.
Pros
Cons
👉 How to get it Free?
- Go to Firewall Analyzer
- Click on the “Download” button to get a 30-day free trial.
30-Day Free Trial
2) TotalAV
TotalAV offers one of the best firewall software experiences I have had. It shielded me from harmful viruses and unsafe websites while providing real-time protection from ransomware, spyware, and adware. Throughout my assessment, I noticed that its performance was consistently smooth, so I received the right level of safety. It is a remarkable firewall solution for those looking for a great way to enhance their system’s defense.
Rapid install speed avoiding interruptions
Real-time antivirus protection
It offers a highly secured Password Vault
Powerful on-demand protection packed into a light solution
Features:
- Remote Firewall: The remote firewall allowed me to securely access my devices remotely, thus making sure that I get both convenience and safety.
- Anonymous Web Surfing: This feature offers one of the best ways to surf the web anonymously and encrypt your internet traffic.
- Real-Time Antivirus Protection: It helps protect your system with real-time antivirus protection as it aims to block malware before it infects.
- Password Vault: The highly secured Password Vault ensures your passwords are stored safely, thus allowing easy access when needed.
- Ad Blocker: The ad blocker feature blocked annoying ads, pop-ups, and intrusive trackers while I browsed the internet.
- Platform Support: I found it great for accessing the internet across Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS without compatibility issues.
Pros
Cons
👉 How to get it Free?
- Go to TotalAV
- Click on the “Free Download” button to get a free-to-use antivirus packed with all the essential features.
Download for Free
👉 Read our full Total AV review.
mSpy is a comprehensive monitoring solution that goes beyond traditional firewall tools by offering real-time activity tracking and advanced security features. It is perfect for parents and employers, mSpy helps prevent threats before they reach your device.
3) GlassWire Firewall
I reviewed GlassWire and particularly liked how this free network monitor and security tool includes a built-in firewall. It helped me track both past and current network activity, which allowed me to secure my network better. I found out that this tool is one of the most effective ways to monitor traffic without any added complexity.
Features:
- Internet Security Visualization: This software allowed me to visualize networking data over time, improving security for your devices and servers.
- One-Click Program Block: A single click allows you to block programs instantly so you can avoid unwanted network activity effectively.
- Monitor Bandwidth Efficiently: The tool helps monitor bandwidth usage daily, weekly, or monthly. Hence, it is a great solution for data management.
- Remote Server Access: It provides comprehensive monitoring of multiple remote servers, making it one of the best tools for network management.
Pros
Cons
👉 How to get it Free?
- Go to GlassWire Firewall
- Click on the “Free Download” button to get a free forever basic plan.
Link: https://www.glasswire.com/
4) ZoneAlarm
During my analysis, ZoneAlarm proved to be a superior choice in the free firewall category. It helped me protect my computer from dangerous cyber threats with its top-notch security features. I particularly liked how it prevented unauthorized network traffic from accessing the internet while blocking malicious programs. If you aim to avoid security breaches, I recommend ZoneAlarm, as it is great for protecting personal data online.
Features:
- Invisible Browsing: This feature lets you work invisibly, thus helping you avoid detection by third parties and hackers.
- Personal Data Protection: It guards your personal data, ensuring the most effective defense against identity theft and breaches.
- Browsing Security: I received a secure browsing experience and WiFi protection. Therefore, I could steer clear of untrusted networks and malware threats.
- Search Safety Alerts: It allows you to search safely and sends alerts for dangerous sites. I could avoid risky websites with timely notifications.
- Document Safety: This feature helps you safely download documents, giving you a reliable way to prevent malware infections.
Pros
Cons
👉 How to get it Free?
- Go to ZoneAlarm
- Click on the “Download Free” button to get a free firewall solution.
Link: https://www.zonealarm.com/software/free-firewall
Spynger is a versatile tool that doubles as a lightweight security solution. While originally known for its device monitoring capabilities, Spynger’s protection suite includes basic firewall-like features to alert you of suspicious activity.
5) Avast Endpoint Firewall
Avast Endpoint is a firewall protection tool I tested that offered me a simple way to find vulnerabilities in third-party applications. During my research, I found out that the patch deployment feature from Avast Business is particularly useful. I recommend this tool for those seeking both security and easy patch management.
Features:
- Cross-Platform Management: This solution helps you manage PCs, Macs, and servers using a single, easy-to-use dashboard.
- Advanced Scheduling: You can schedule tasks in advance for better device control across all systems without manual input. Hence, I could easily control my systems without intervention.
- Custom Web Filtering: It helped me block dangerous websites with custom templates and group devices for added security.
- Comprehensive Threat Reports: You can receive thorough reports on malware and security threats to stay ahead of potential risks.
- Admin Management: I could invite more administrators and personalize notifications to ensure efficient system management.
Pros
Cons
👉 How to get it Free?
- Go to Avast Endpoint Firewall
- Click on the “Trial” button to get a 30-day free trial. No payment is needed.
Link: https://www.avast.com/business/trials
6) Mcafee Firewall
Mcafee firewalls allows me to keep my PC and devices safe by monitoring network traffic. It helped me detect and block malicious programs before they could cause harm. I particularly appreciate the ease of setup and the seamless protection it offers across different devices.
Features:
- Malware Protection: It prevents malware, viruses, and ransomware from infecting devices. Thus offering essential security for users.
- Firewall Security: This feature allowed me to secure your firewall and block hackers from accessing my home network for comprehensive protection.
- Password Manager: One of the best ways to store and manage passwords online is with this solution for efficiency.
- Encrypted File Storage: I could store sensitive files securely on my system with 256-bit encryption, thus allowing great protection for private information.
Pros
Cons
👉 How to get it Free?
- Go to Mcafee Firewall
- Click on the “Buy” button to buy any plan, and you will get a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Link: https://www.mcafee.com/
7) Azure Firewall
Azure Firewall provided me with a superior network security solution that protected my network resources. I tested its threat intelligence filtering, which was great for stopping potential threats. I could also block traffic from malicious domains and IP addresses, which helped me avoid many security issues.
Features:
- Scalability & Availability: It offers high availability and unrestricted scalability. This helped me grow my cloud infrastructure as needed.
- Connectivity Policy Management: You can create, enforce, and log application and network connectivity policies to avoid vulnerabilities. I found this feature essential for protecting sensitive data.
- NAT Features: It enables source and destination Network Address Translation for easy network adaptability and efficient routing.
- Hybrid Cloud Support: I noticed that it facilitates hybrid connectivity through ExpressRoute Gateways and VPN, which is helpful for businesses.
- Logging Integration: It is fully integrated with Azure Monitor to provide one of the best logging and analytics platforms for cloud monitoring.
Pros
Cons
👉 How to get it Free?
- Go to Azure Firewall
- Click on the “Try Azure for free” button to get a $200 credit to use on Azure services within 30 days.
Link: https://azure.microsoft.com/en-in/products/azure-firewall/
8) Norton
I tested Norton AntiVirus Plus on my PC, and it offered me great firewall protection along with real-time threat defense. During my review, I found out that it can block spyware, phishing attacks, and malware efficiently. I could access its several layers of security, which made me feel secure while browsing.
Features:
- Password Management: This tool helps you securely generate, store, and manage passwords, credit or debit card details, and credentials. I could store my credentials efficiently without worrying about security.
- Alert Notifications: The application scanned and alerted me via text and email when any suspicious activity was detected, thus allowing me to respond quickly.
- Identity Theft Protection: This application allows you to fix identity theft issues effectively with essential tools to secure your data.
- Advanced Threat Defense: Norton provides security features like advanced threat defense, offering comprehensive protection against vulnerabilities and risks.
- Vulnerability Assessment: The application helped me assess vulnerabilities in my system. Thus offering a great way to prevent potential threats.
Pros
Cons
👉 How to get it Free?
- Go to Norton
- Click on the “Start free trial” button to get a 7-day free trial.
Link: https://us.norton.com/downloads
9) Comodo Free Firewall
According to my research, Comodo stands out as one of the best free firewall software options. It offers powerful technology solutions to protect your online activity. I personally recommend this tool because it allows you to enjoy fast and secure internet use without any hassle. I could access its features easily, and the solution is perfect for both personal and business use.
Features:
- Fast and Efficient Browsing: Comodo offers you fast and hassle-free browsing, which improved my overall system performance.
- Smart Traffic Management: The tool manages PC traffic, thus optimizing the flow for better system efficiency and stability.
- Powerful Internet Attack Blocker: It helps block every type of Internet attack, giving you full peace of mind. Thus, I could confidently browse without fear of breaches.
- DDP Security Features: The DDP-based security provides necessary alerts and actively secures your PC from potential threats.
- All-Connection Security: It secured my connections while browsing, thus providing essential protection across all activities.
- Traffic Monitoring: This tool monitors traffic both ways, offering complete control over my incoming and outgoing data.
Pros
Cons
👉 How to get it Free?
- Go to Comodo Free Firewall
- Click on the “Download Free Firewall” button to get a free firewall solution.
Link: https://www.comodo.com/home/internet-security/firewall.php
10) Evorim
Evorim is one of the best free firewall software that I have found during my research. It helped me identify threats and protect my website’s privacy, which I particularly liked. I recommend it because it works well with Windows 11. It also lets me control which programs access the Internet.
Features:
- Unauthorized Access Blocker: It stops site invaders from accessing your computer, offering one of the best security solutions.
- Access Regulation: This tool helped me regulate network and Internet access according to application requirements for the most effective control.
- Instant Alerts: You will receive notifications if unauthorized programs attempt to access the internet, thus avoiding unnecessary risks.
- Tracking Prevention: It protected me from being tracked or monitored through cookies and other online techniques, thus improving my privacy.
Pros
Cons
👉 How to get it Free?
- Go to Evorim
- Click on the “Download” button to get FreeFirewall for Windows.
Link: https://www.evorim.com/en/free-firewall
11) Arista NG Firewall
Arista NG Firewall provided me with a superior choice for network security. I was able to configure it based on my organization’s requirements. It offered me powerful features like Application Control, Threat Prevention, and WireGuard VPN. I could also access reports and set up alerts without any trouble.
Features:
- Centralized Network Control: NG Firewall allowed me to manage and monitor my entire network from one location, thus simplifying oversight and troubleshooting.
- Windows Firewall: It is one of the most effective free firewalls for Windows. It can manage backups, logs, and license renewals efficiently.
- Security Integration: This firewall software allows easy integration with endpoint security systems. Hence, I received enterprise-grade network security and connectivity for all connected devices.
Pros
Cons
👉 How to get it Free?
- Go to Arista NG Firewall
- Create a free account to get a 30-day free trial.
Link: https://edge.arista.com/ng-firewall/free-trial/
What is a Firewall?
A Firewall is a security system designed for the network. A firewall is set on the boundaries of any system or network which monitors and controls network traffic. Firewalls are mostly used to protect the system or network from malware, worms, and viruses. Firewalls can also prevent content filtering and remote access.
How Did We Choose Best Firewall Software?
At Guru99, we prioritize credibility by focusing on accurate, relevant, and objective information through rigorous content creation and review. With over 90 hours of research into 35+ Best Free Firewall Software, we have compiled a trusted list of both free and paid versions. Our article thoroughly examines each tool’s features, pros, and cons, providing a comprehensive guide for those seeking a reliable firewall. When choosing firewall software, it is essential to consider several important factors to ensure it fits your specific needs, offering a well-rounded solution for security.
- Easy to Use and Setup: Opt for software with a user-friendly interface and straightforward setup process. This makes configuration and monitoring simpler, even for beginners.
- Security Features: Ensure the firewall software provides robust security features like intrusion prevention, VPN support, and malware protection. These are vital for safeguarding your network from cyber threats.
- Personalization: I suggest looking for customizable settings that allow you to tailor the firewall to your specific needs, such as creating personalized security rules.
- Real-time Threat Protection: Select a firewall that offers real-time protection, enabling it to detect and block threats as they occur.
- Support for Multiple Platforms: Verify if the firewall supports different operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, and Linux, which is important for cross-platform protection.
- Support: I recommend choosing firewall software that provides responsive customer support and comprehensive documentation. Note that it should also include how-to guides, FAQs, and troubleshooting options.
- Pricing: Consider your budget while evaluating the software’s cost in relation to the features it offers. Some firewalls may offer a good balance between price and features, including free options.
Why Use Firewall Software?
Firewall software offers protection from cyberattacks and secures your computer and network from any unnecessary network traffic and malicious software. It also improves the overall security of your computer. Additionally, firewalls protect your private network from malware threats and unauthorized access.
How Does a Firewall Work?
A firewall monitors all the traffic and data that goes in and out of a system. It allows good data and blocks bad data from entering the computer. It uses the following three methods to control the network traffic:
- Packet Filtering: This method uses pre-determined security rules to create filters and discard the packets that are flagged by the filters.
- Proxy Service: It is an application that acts as an intermediary between systems. This tool creates and runs a process on the firewall that mirrors a service as it operates on the end host.
- Stateful Inspection: It is a modern method of firewall scanning. This method holds significant attributes of each connection in a database of trusted information. Then it compares the information being transferred to the copy relevant to that transfer held in the database. If the comparison has a positive outcome, the information is allowed; otherwise, it is denied.
Verdict:
The above list contains some of the most reliable firewall software for Windows. After thorough research, I’d like to recommend the top three firewalls as per my observation of their functionalities:
- 👍 Firewall Analyzer offers a customizable solution, thus ensuring strong security with real-time monitoring of network vulnerabilities.
- TotalAV provides comprehensive protection with real-time antivirus. Hence, it is a secure choice for home and office users.
- GlassWire Firewall is a highly reliable, user-friendly tool for visualizing network activities and blocking malicious applications.
Firewall Analyzer is a firewall management software. It helps you to detect security vulnerabilities in the firewall policies. It provides real-time visibility into network firewall security.