How to properly check if Windows Firewall is on?
This article applies to all MetaDefender Endpoint releases deployed on Windows systems.
Overview
Windows Firewall settings are determined by a combination of Group Policy (GPO) and Local Policy. The final applied settings result from a merge of these configurations, depending on the policies set in Group Policy.
Understanding Firewall Policy Merging
Windows Firewall has multiple configuration stores:
Group Policy (GPO) – Managed by administrators via Active Directory.
Local Policy – Configured directly on the machine.
Active Policy – The merged result of both policies.
Example Scenario
Group Policy: Firewall enabled for the domain profile.
Local Policy: Firewall disabled for the domain profile.
Final (Active) Policy: Firewall remains enabled, as Group Policy takes precedence.
How to Verify the Active Firewall Policy
Since different tools may show different policies, it's important to use the correct method for verification.
1. Checking Local Policy Only (Limited View)
The following command shows only the local store configuration, which may not reflect the merged policy:
powershellnetsh advfirewall show allprofilesLimitation: This does not display Group Policy settings, so the actual firewall status may differ.
2. Checking the Merged (Active) Policy
To see the effective firewall settings, including Group Policy, use:
Get-NetFirewallProfile -PolicyStore ActiveStoreBest Practice: This command provides the most accurate representation of the applied firewall policy.
3. Comparing Command Output with UI
The Control Panel reflects the active policy (merged result). However, the Windows Firewall with Advanced Security (WFAS) snap-in may show only local settings when connected to the local machine.
Recommendation:
- Always verify the Control Panel firewall settings.
- Compare with Get-NetFirewallProfile -PolicyStore ActiveStore to confirm the actual firewall status.
Conclusion
Windows Firewall settings result from a merge of Group Policy and local policy.
Group Policy overrides local settings, so relying on local policy alone can be misleading.
Use PowerShell (Get-NetFirewallProfile -PolicyStore ActiveStore) to check the actual applied policy.
Always compare command output with UI settings for the most accurate firewall status.
For any queries, concerns or issues regarding Verifying Windows Firewall's Status From MetaDefender Endpoint, please open a Support Case with the OPSWAT team via phone, online chat or form, or feel free to ask the community on our OPSWAT Expert Forum.
