Our verdict: Windows Firewall Control turns the built-in Windows Firewall into an easy outbound firewall with notifications and one-click profiles. It does no filtering of its own, so it is light and stable, but it depends entirely on Windows Firewall and needs some rule management.
About Windows Firewall Control
Windows Firewall Control (WFC) was created by BiniSoft and is now owned by Malwarebytes, which offers the current version as freeware without activation. It runs in the system tray and manages Windows Firewall instead of replacing it, so all packet filtering is still done by Windows.
WFC offers four modes: High Filtering blocks everything, Medium Filtering blocks outbound connections without a rule, Low Filtering allows outbound connections without a rule, and No Filtering turns the firewall off. In Medium mode it shows notifications for blocked outbound connections, so you can allow or block an app with a click. It also creates temporary rules, finds invalid and duplicate rules, and prevents other programs from changing firewall rules.
What it does well
- Four filtering modes. Switch between High, Medium, Low and No Filtering from the tray.
- Outbound notifications. Prompts you when an app without a rule tries to connect.
- Learning mode. Automatically allows digitally signed programs.
- Temporary rules. Rules that delete themselves when they expire or on restart.
- Rule protection. Stops other programs from tampering with firewall rules and state.
Who it is for
Good fit
Users who want outbound control and connection alerts on top of the built-in Windows Firewall.
Look elsewhere
PCs running another firewall, VPN filter or security suite that redirects traffic away from Windows Firewall.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free, no activation required
- Light, because filtering stays in Windows Firewall
- Clear outbound connection prompts
- Rule cleanup tools for invalid and duplicate rules
Cons
- Depends completely on Windows Firewall and its service
- Incompatible with software that redirects traffic away from Windows Firewall
- Medium mode means many prompts at first until rules are in place
How to install Windows Firewall Control
WFC needs .NET Framework 4.8 and the Windows Firewall service enabled. After installation, choose Medium Filtering and enable notifications, then allow your apps as prompts appear. Consider turning on learning mode for signed programs at first. Keep the option to restore previous firewall settings when you uninstall.
Questions about Windows Firewall Control
Is Windows Firewall Control free?
Yes. Malwarebytes offers the latest version of Windows Firewall Control as freeware without activation.
Does it replace Windows Firewall?
No. It controls Windows Firewall and does not filter any traffic itself.
What does Medium Filtering do?
It blocks outbound connections that do not match a rule, so only programs you allow can connect to the internet.
