Personal Firewall security levels

Generally, when you select a restrictive security level like Stealth or Monitored Access, you need to handle more options and alerts than you would with a permissive security level like Full Access or Outgoing Access.

The following table describes the security levels, starting with the least restrictive.

Security level	Description
Full Access	Automatically allow programs on your PC to send and receive information over the Internet. This setting is recommended mainly for users running a server, like a web server or email server, that must regularly accept incoming connections.
Outgoing Access	Automatically allow programs on your PC only to send information over the Internet. Personal Firewall prompts you to allow or deny access when programs attempt to receive information, but not when they are sending it. We recommend this setting for most users.
Monitored Access	Monitor information that is sent to and from programs on your PC. Personal Firewall prompts you to allow or deny access when unrecognized programs attempt to send or receive information, providing more control and security.
Stealth	Block all incoming Internet connections except for ports that are allowed in system service ports, to keep your PC from being detected on the Internet. Stealth reduces the risk that a hacker will be able to compromise your security. Personal Firewall prompts you to allow or deny access when programs attempt to send or receive information.
Lockdown	Instantly block all incoming and outgoing traffic between, effectively disconnecting your PC from the network and the Internet. You might want to do this when you suspect a security vulnerability or attack.

When you define permissions for programs — by allowing or denying access to the Internet — those programs appear on the Program Permissions page.