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How to allow specific program or ports to pass through Windows Server 2008 firewall
Introduction
This guide explains how to allow specific program or ports to pass through the Windows Server 2008 firewall. Opening ports is necessary to allow network traffic for applications such as web servers, email servers, and other services. By configuring the firewall to allow specific ports, you ensure that the necessary traffic can flow to and from your server without compromising security. This article is intended for users who need to configure firewall rules on Windows Server 2008.
Prerequisites
- Administrator access to the Windows Server.
- The specific port numbers you need to open for the application or service.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Open the firewall settings
Log in to your Windows Server 2008 with an administrator account. Click on tht ‘Start’ button, navigate to ‘Administrative Tools’, and click on ‘Windows Firewall with Advanced Security’.
2. Create a new inbound rule
At the left panel, click on ‘Inbound Rules’.
At the right panel, click on ‘New Rules…’.
3. Select the rule type
After that, you will see several rule types listed here. Please choose the rule type according to your needs.
Program rule type
This is the interface when you choose Program as rule. You can decide whether to allow this rule to all programs or to be specific to one program. Please click ‘Browse…’ to browse your program. Click ‘Next’ after you have done setting it.
Port rule type
This is the interface when you choose Ports as rule. You can choose to whether apply rules in TCP or UDP packets, and then insert the port number in Specific local ports input box. Click ‘Next’ after you have done setting it.
4. Allow the connection
This is the interface that decided the action that will take by the firewall to the Program/Ports you had just choose. It provides functions to allow, allow with conditions, or completely block the program/ports. Click ‘Next’ after you have done choosing the rule.
5. Specify the connection type
This is the interface to let you decide whether to apply the inbound rules to the selected network profile. Click Next after you have selected the network profile.
6. Name the rule
Now you need to decide the name and description of this rule. After insert name and description, click on ‘Finish’ and save and apply the rules.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can allow specific program/ports to pass through the Windows Server 2008 firewall, enabling essential services to function properly. Always ensure that only necessary ports are opened to minimize security risks.
Article posted on 18 April 2020.