11 Best FREE Firewall Software for Windows (2025)

Best Firewall Software

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.
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Editor's Choice
Firewall Analyzer

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.

Visit Firewall Analyzer

Best Free Firewall Programs for Windows

Name Features Free Trial Link
Firewall Analyzer
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
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
GlassWire Firewall
• You can see your current & past network activity
• Detect malware and block badly behaving apps
Download for Free Learn More
ZoneAlarm
ZoneAlarm
• You can work invisibly.
• It guards your personal data.
30-Day Free Trial Learn More
Avast
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.

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

  • It is PCI DSS and ISO 27001 compliant
  • You can diagnose live firewall connections
  • It can trigger alerts in real time for bandwidth usage
  • Import log files easily to the Firewall analyzer from your local host

Cons

  • Setting up advanced features can be challenging

👉 How to get it Free?

Visit Firewall Analyzer

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.

#2
TotalAV
4.9

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

Visit TotalAV

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

  • It comes with next-gen advanced cloud scanning
  • You can quarantine potentially dangerous files
  • TotalAV has a one-click login feature
  • If you fall victim to identity theft, TotalAV guarantees $1,000,000 insurance

Cons

  • Protects only six devices at once
  • The safe search may not always function

👉 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.

Visit TotalAV >>

Download for Free

👉 Read our full Total AV review.


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.

GlassWire Firewall

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

  • You can block the connections of applications that do not behave well
  • Receive alerts when a new app accesses the network
  • It provides network usage statistics with granular data
  • You can set up different Firewall profiles for different use cases

Cons

  • It may slow down your device sometimes
  • The free version doesn’t include a “Ask to Connect” feature

👉 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.

ZoneAlarm

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

  • Get real-time antivirus and anti-phishing protection for your computer
  • It can reconstruct files, remove threats, and deliver clean content
  • Get alerts if someone gains control over the operating system
  • It has a 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • It is compatible with only MS Windows Defender
  • You have to uninstall any existing anti-virus to use Zone Alarm

👉 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


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.

Avast Endpoint Firewall

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

  • It lets you manage multiple devices and add and remove users securely
  • All its plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee
  • It uses six layers of protection
  • This Firewall allows you to give access control and permissions

Cons

  • Patch management is only available for Windows

👉 How to get it Free?

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.

Mcafee Firewall

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

  • You can manage unlimited devices
  • It includes a file shredder feature
  • Provides $1 million for identity theft in its advanced plan
  • $25,000 is provided for ransomware coverage

Cons

  • No lost wallet protection for other plans except for Advanced
  • It doesn’t provide identity restoration except for the Advanced plan

👉 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.

Azure Firewall

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

  • It inspects traffic in real-time
  • Azure has a large number of certifications that include ISO/IEC, IRS 1075, HIPPA, etc.
  • Once you complete 12 months, you will get over 55 services that are always free
  • It provides a unified management that can manage security across all virtual networks

Cons

  • The price may not always be competitive
  • It is not suitable for small businesses

👉 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.

Norton

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

  • It includes parental control
  • Norton provides VPN for up to 5 devices
  • If Norton expert fails to remove the virus, you get a refund
  • It has a video supervision monitor

Cons

  • Norton backup cloud feature is available only on Windows
  • Its safe cam features are not available on iOS

👉 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.

Comodo Free Firewall

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

  • It provides a complete history of malware
  • Comodo learns your behavior to give personalized protection
  • It has a lot of configuration options
  • This firewall comes with a Deny Protection feature that works with feasible files

Cons

  • Its installation can be time-consuming
  • It is not easy to navigate and find its features

👉 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.

Evorim

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

  • It can block any kind of telemetry data transmission
  • Evorim can filter programs, zones, and services
  • It is capable of blocking botnets
  • This firewall doesn’t collect any of your data

Cons

  • It silently blocks apps by default, so it can be a task to permit them manually

👉 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.

Untangle

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

  • It comes with WireGuard VPN
  • You can download reports
  • It has a bandwidth control capability
  • It includes blockers for ads and phishing

Cons

  • Its dashboard is not customizable enough
  • The configurations can be hard to find

👉 How to get it Free?

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?

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:

  1. Packet Filtering: This method uses pre-determined security rules to create filters and discard the packets that are flagged by the filters.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
Editor's Choice
Firewall Analyzer

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.

Visit Firewall Analyzer