10 Best Free Firewall Software – 2024

In this article, we have done an depth analysis and listed your top 10 best Free Firewall software that provides extended security to protect your system from bad actors.

Generally, every computer is connected to the internet and is susceptible to being the victim of a hacker or an unwanted attack.

The whole procedure, which is used generally, consists of mopping the network in search of a connected computer or laptop.

Then the attacker simply looks for the security “hole” simply to gain access to the data present on the computer or laptop.

All these threats could even become greater if the computer permanently remains connected to the internet.

If the PC is connected without permanent supervision, then undoubtedly it will become a gold mine for the attackers or hackers.

Hence, to protect us from intruders, we have in our favor a fantastic tool which is known as Firewall.

Table of Contents

FAQ
Best Free Firewall Software and Key Features
Comodo Free Firewall
GlassWire
Zone Alarm Basic Firewall
TinyWall
Malwarebytes Windows Firewall
OpenDNS
Windows Firewall
Netdefender
AVS Firewall
Agnitum Outpost Firewall

FAQ

1. What is a Firewall?

Firewalls are tools that can be used to improve the security of computers attached to a network, just like LAN or the Internet.

So, if we think about what a firewall is the first and foremost thing that comes to our mind is that a firewall is a computer software program that restricts illegal and unapproved access to or from a separate or private network.

These are integral elements of a complete security framework for your system or network.

Hence a firewall works as a wall between your computer and the internet. It cleans out all the wicked traffic originating from the outside world, whereas software and hardware-based firewalls are also available.

Apart from software, USB firewall sticks are also available, and they are generally known as Armadillo and USG.

Hence, many people believe that a firewall is a device that is established on the network, and it checks the traffic that crosses within the network section.

However, apart from all these things you can also have a host-based firewall that can be administered on the computer systems themselves, along with ICF (Internet Connection Firewall). 

Fundamentally, the work of both firewalls is identical: to stop the intervention and present a robust process of access control policy.

Well, we can define, firewalls are nothing but a system that protects your computer.

The firewall achieves all these tasks by examining the data packets upon the rules that have been set up.

Hence, if the data packs are in trade with these rules, then they are allowed by the firewalls. If they fail to meet the rules, then the firewall refuses them and blocks them.

Well, in today’s generation, firewalls are serving to defend PCs and other related devices all over the world, whether they refer to individual users, huge companies, or the administration.

2. How Firewall Work?

Well, after knowing what a firewall is, you must be thinking about how it works.

A firewall entirely confines your computer from the internet practicing a “wall of code” that investigates each “packet” of data as it appears on both sides of the firewall —that is inbound to or outbound from your device— to conclude whether it should be allowed to cross or gets rejected.

Moreover, firewalls also have further ability to improve security by enabling granular control over what types of system roles and methods have access to networking sources.

Hence, firewalls can utilize various kinds of signs and host situations to enable or disallow traffic.

However, they seem complicated, but firewalls are comparatively easy to install, set up, and work.

Establishing antivirus software as well as an extra firewall is your best opportunity to keep your system malware-free.

Furthermore, firewalls work by controlling the data traffic to allow or accept the ‘good data’ while refusing or blocking the ‘bad or malicious data.’

But, if we get into the details of the features, then the firewall uses one of the three methods or sequences of these to measure the traffic that passes in and out of the network.

Hence, the firewall permits the information to go through if the connection yields a decisive match unless the record of the data or data packet is refused.

3. What are the types of a Firewall?

Following are the three types of firewalls.

1. Packet-Filtering Firewalls
2. Circuit-level gateways.
3. Stateful Inspection Firewalls.

Packet-filtering firewalls: This is one of the original types of firewalls, which simply operates online at junction points where devices like routers and switches simply do their job.

However, this firewall does not route packets. But it compares each packet received with a set of established standards like IP addresses, packet type, port number, etc.

Circuit-level gateways: It simply monitors the TCP link protocols on the network.

They are simply established between local and remote hosts to determine if the session that is started is legitimate or not. However, apart from all these things, it does not inspect the packages.

Stateful inspection firewalls: They not only examine each packet but also track if that packet is part of an established TCP session.

Moreover, it offers more security than packet filtering or simple circuit-level gateways. And not only that even it also generates a greater impact on network performance.

However, apart from all these things, we have mentioned all the well-known and best free firewall software in 2024.

Best Free Firewall Software and Key Features

So, now without wasting much time, let’s get started and simply explore the whole list that we have mentioned below.

Best Free Firewall Software

1. Comodo Free Firewall
2. GlassWire
3. Zone Alarm Basic Firewall
4. TinyWall
5. Malwarebytes Windows Firewall
6. OpenDNS
7. Windows Firewall
8. Netdefender
9. AVS Firewall
10. Agnitum Outpost Firewall

1. Comodo Free Firewall

Core Features:

Firstly, we will discuss the Comodo Free Firewall Software. It allows virtual Internet browsing, an ad blocker, a game mode, custom DNS servers, Virtual Kiosk in enhancement to features to easily block any method or program from flying/entering the network.

Every user enjoys using this firewall as it’s easy to attach plans to the block or support list. Moreover, it also provides a specific, advanced setting if you need to use them.

Furthermore, the Comodo Firewall has a Number Scan option to scan all working processes to determine how reliable they are.

Hence, this firewall is especially helpful if you assume that any malware is going on your computer.

Thus Comodo KillSwitch is the first portion of the Comodo Firewall that enumerates all working methods and makes it strong to eliminate or block anything you don’t want.

Therefore you can also examine all your computer’s working applications and services from this window.

However, Comodo Firewall may take a more extended time than you’re used to installing. But it’s a very effective and useful firewall.

To Whom it is advised?

People who use their homes or small home offices a lot should get Comodo Free Firewall. Instead of big businesses or complicated network setups, it’s made to meet the needs of single users or small environments.

The firewall is simple to use and sets itself up automatically. It has many useful features, such as tracking threats in real-time, a testing area for new software, and AI-powered analysis of user behavior.

It is important to remember, though, that it can only be used on Windows computers.​​​

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2. GlassWire

Core Features:

Next, we have the GlassWire Free Firewall Software. It is a network monitoring software as well as a firewall, and it’s free and easy to use.

This software is available for Windows 7, 8, and 10. However, this software would be perfect for a small business network, and not only that but it’s also used for home use as well.

Thus this firewall can be set up with different profiles, so it works adversely in each scenario. For illustration, you can have both a home network setting and a public Wi-Fi profile.

As well as preventing incoming connections, the set allows you to monitor bandwidth usage, restricting some apps to make more bandwidth available to essential applications.

The traffic management functions go down to a port number, program, and method.

The tool simply monitors and continually tracks all movement on your computer, scanning for anything suspicious.

Like TinyWall, the firewall duties of GlassWire are just a control interface to the original Windows Defender.

To Whom it is advised?

GlassWire Firewall is recommended for Windows users and small to medium-sized enterprises who need sophisticated network monitoring and firewall administration.

Users who value a user-friendly interface with adjustable capabilities for easy and advanced network activity tracking will like it.

Windows users who require a fast, non-intrusive security tool might choose GlassWire. ARP spoofing monitoring, VirusTotal suspicious file testing, and real-time network change warnings satisfy consumers who want full security and network management solutions.

It is incompatible with Mac OS and iOS, limiting its use to Windows and Android devices.

3. Zone Alarm Basic Firewall

Core Features:

After that, we have the Zone alarm basic firewall, which is available for Windows 7, 8, and 10.

This tool has some great features, which makes it a choice for home Wi-Fi networks and laptops that correlate to the internet in public places.

Thus all you have to install is an internet connection for the download and an email address for the activation.

This firewall comprises a “stealth mode,” which preserves your connections from hackers, involves identity security services, and prevents malware.

Hence if you are in the US, you can call on the organization for victim compensation assistance in the occurrence of identity theft.

However, the software will add an extra coat of security to your associates when you correlate to public wifi hotspots, and it evaluates the protection of your home Wi-Fi network to enhance protection from attacks.

To Whom it is advised?

Individuals and small businesses that want a strong and dependable firewall for their Windows-based computers should mostly use ZoneAlarm Basic Firewall.

ZoneAlarm is famous for its firewall that automatically blocks suspicious illegal connections. This keeps attacks from coming in and stops data thieves. Its “Full Stealth” mode is especially useful because it keeps hackers from finding your system.

4. TinyWall

Core Features:

Now we will discuss the TinyWall Free Firewall Software. Karoly Pados came up with the smart idea of designing an improvement for the native Windows Firewall, Windows Defender.

Therefore it’s not surprising that this service is only available for Windows. The reason for the development of TinyWall is that it should be modest.

The program encompasses every time and acts as an icon in the system service.

Thus you can tap on the icon to see the popup menu of the system. This indicates that warning information is accessible on request.

But the interesting point about this feature is that you won’t get your computer stopped by an overlay when you are doing something on your system.

While on the downside, warning alerts are easy to overlook, which is pretty dangerous.

Its service is free of cost, and that’s determined to be harmless and lightweight.

Thus this firewall doesn’t have several features. Apart from all these things, you can whitelist requests to check your essential plans from being blocked.

To Whom it is advised?

For Windows users who need a simple, effective, and non-intrusive firewall option, TinyWall Firewall is made just for them.

It’s the best choice for private users who only need one PC, small offices or home offices, or PCs for the whole family. TinyWall improves the default Windows firewall by adding more features and making the interface easier to use.

This makes it a good choice for people who find the default Windows firewall setup hard to understand or not good enough.

5. Malwarebytes Windows Firewall

Core Features:

After that, Malwarebytes obtained BiniSoft Free Firewall Software in a request to ramp up the firm’s endpoint security resolutions.

Thus the BiniSoft Windows Firewall Control tool presents additional characteristics to increase Windows Firewall software.

Well, this software works in the system service for fast and immediate access and can present information for outbound blocked connections and digitally contracted plans.

Not only that, but even the original firewall from Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Server 2016, and Server 2012 can be accomplished by this tool.

However, the startup’s software has been installed approximately 500,000 times.

Not only this, but BiniSoft has also created a tool for USB drive control. As we all know very well cyberattacks generally aim to rise against users’ businesses.

Therefore, the CEO of Malwarebytes, Marcin Kleczynski, has announced that it is enhancing more importance than ever to ensure endpoints are efficient.

Hence, the company also stated that it is committed to advancing the purpose of the BiniSoft outcomes and its features.

Moreover, the startup’s anti-malware, anti-exploit, anti-rootkit, cloud antivirus software, and sandbox abilities were merged with Malwarebytes enterprise protection contributions.

To Whom it is advised?

Those who want fine-grained control over their firewall settings but don’t want to deal with the hassle of setting up a whole new firewall system would value this utility.

Similar to how the native Windows Firewall uses the Windows Filtering Platform (WFP) APIs, WFC functions on the same architecture. This method guarantees excellent compatibility with Windows platforms and minimal resource overhead.

6. OpenDNS

Core Features:

Now we have the OpenDNS Free Firewall Software; its name is recognized between custom DNS services, Google DNS, and Cloudflare obtaining the other two VIPscustoms.

Its users also acquire a free firewall to develop their internet protection while browsing various websites.

Hence, it’s estimated as OpenDNS Home, and you don’t need to trade with any dull setup method or any further app.

Thus all you need to arrange the OpenDNS server on your device, for that you have to do a few extra steps, and you’re ready to work.

To Whom it is advised?

OpenDNS is recommended for customers who are looking for a DNS-based solution that is both flexible and completely customizable, with the purpose of improving internet security and filtering material.

This solution is ideal for both individual and commercial use. It is able to be implemented across a wide variety of devices and network configurations, and it provides a variety of packages to meet the requirements of a variety of users.

7. Windows Firewall

Core Features:

Now the next firewall in our list is the Windows Free Firewall Software, well if you have this free, robust firewall, then don’t panic about any other malicious bugs.

The Windows Firewall is a perfect explication that you can undoubtedly pick when searching for the best free firewall software.

Well, it was first included with Windows XP in the year 2003, and it has been developed a lot considering from that time.

Thus the Windows Defender Firewall in Windows 10 is one of the elements to admire.

And not only that even if it operates so calmly that it is the maximum of the time, but you also won’t even see that it exists on your PC.

To Whom it is advised?

It works best with Windows PCs and is perfect for home users, small businesses, and professional settings.

Windows Firewall is meant to keep out network threats and unauthorized users while still letting legitimate data flow through.

It comes with advanced configuration choices, inbound and outbound firewall rules, and works with the Windows operating system’s overall security framework.

8. Netdefender

Core Features:

Then we have the Netdefender. It is a pretty fundamental firewall application for Windows, as we can easily determine that it is a source and target IP address and port number; not only this, even it also has the protocol simply to block or allow any address.

Thus it implies that you can easily prevent FTP or any additional port from being used on the network.

However, blocking applications is a bit inadequate as the program must be currently operating to add it to the block list.

Therefore, it works by recording all the working plans and holding the option to add them to the list of blocked applications.

Thus Netdefender further comprises a port scanner by which you can instantly see which ports are permitted on your machine to help understand which of them you may need to stop.

The Netdefender operates officially only in Windows XP and Windows 2000, but the fact is that it didn’t create any problems for us in Windows 7 or Windows 8.

To Whom it is advised?

NetDefender is a basic firewall program that Windows users who want a straightforward and easy option for their systems should consider.

For people or small businesses that want a simple way to protect their networks, this is the best option. The NetDefender software is easy for people who aren’t very tech-savvy to use and set up.

This makes it a good choice for people who want basic safety against unwanted network traffic. With just one click, the firewall lets or blocks incoming traffic.

It has all the important features without the hassle of more complicated firewalls. ​​

9. AVS Firewall

Core Features:

Now we have the AVS firewall. This is a brand that is recognized by Online Media Technologies Ltd.

Although, the organization doesn’t make its firewall software simple to find on its website.

Therefore, you can download it from Tucows or Softpedia, any of these free software-sharing sites.

This firewall works on all variants of Windows from XP to Windows 10. Moreover, it blocks incoming applications’ connection, and it combines other security devices.

If you want then you can also choose the combination, like which apps on your computer are provided to attach to the internet and a protection level feature.

However, this software controls movement in the registry and blocks modifications.

Furthermore, the AVS Firewall Free Firewall Software implements surfing protection as well as system protection.

These projects combine an ad as well as a popup blocker and parental controls.

Thus you can easily designate bandwidth usage limits to devices, applications, or plans.

To Whom it is advised?

Small businesses and individuals who use Windows and need a basic, easy-to-use firewall option should get AVS Firewall.

It’s good for people who need basic network security but don’t want the hassle of more complicated security systems.

AVS Firewall has features like monitoring connections in real time, traffic data, making custom rules for applications, protecting the registry, and controlling access for children.

This makes it a good choice for people who want to be in charge of their internet connections and keep their computers safe from hackers and other online threats.

10. Agnitum Outpost Firewall

Core Features:

Lastly, we will discuss the Outpost firewall, well the maker of the Outpost firewall is Agnitum Ltd, which was sold to Yandex 2017, it was the Russian search engine.

Hence, if you want, then you can’t obtain this firewall straight from the company anymore, but it is accessible from software sharing sites like Filehippo and Softonic.

Now you might be thinking why a dropped firewall is discussed on this list. It has been considered here as it justifies being one the best among all.

Agnitum authorized its firewall to other protection companies, so this is the firewall that you can obtain from another big-name cybersecurity contributor, counting Sophos.

However, the paid Outpost Firewall Pro is no longer recommended; while the free firewall is still going influentially.

Hence, the features of this wonderful security service combine automated whitelisting for popular software, an anti-leak design that blocks unusual outgoing messages, a file, and a folder, moreover, an ad and popup blocker is also available for web browsers.

To Whom it is advised?

Windows users who need a more powerful and resilient firewall should choose Agnitum Outpost Firewall. Individuals and small to medium-sized businesses that need full network protection should utilize it.

The firewall monitors inbound and outbound network traffic, detects intrusions, and offers advanced configuration choices. Technically inclined users that want fine-grained network security control may choose Agnitum Outpost Firewall.

For advanced network security administration and customization, its ability to handle complicated network settings makes it a trusted choice.

Conclusion

Generally, we have provided a list of the best free firewall software for Windows Versions.

So, from the above list, you can simply choose any of the mentioned firewalls, and all of them are available for free, yes, free of cost.

It means that you won’t have any problems while shifting from one to another firewall.

Apart from all these things, you can say that the above Free Firewall Software list is not comprehensive, as there are various other factors to think about while picking the best Free Firewall Software among all the mentioned ones.

So, we hope that you liked this post, and if you liked this post, then simply do now forget to share this article with your friends, and family, and on your social media profiles as well.