How to Block Internet Access to an App in Windows 10
Blocking internet access to an app in Windows 10 can be super useful when you want to control data usage or restrict certain apps from going online. You’ll use the built-in Windows Firewall for this, and it’s pretty straightforward. Just follow a few steps to create a new outbound rule that prevents the app from connecting to the internet.
How to Block Internet Access to an App in Windows 10
These steps will guide you to block an app from accessing the internet by using the Windows Firewall. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Open Windows Defender Firewall
First, click on the Start menu and type "Windows Defender Firewall" and hit Enter.
This will open the Windows Defender Firewall, which is the tool we will use to block the internet access for the app.
Step 2: Access Advanced Settings
Next, click on "Advanced settings" on the left-hand side.
Opening advanced settings provides more options and allows you to create custom rules for your firewall.
Step 3: Create a New Outbound Rule
In the new window, click on "Outbound Rules" and then on "New Rule…" on the right-hand side.
Outbound rules determine the traffic that is allowed to leave your computer, so you will configure a new rule here to block the app from sending data to the internet.
Step 4: Choose Program Option
Select "Program" and click Next.
This step is important because it tells the firewall you are creating a rule specific to a certain program.
Step 5: Select Program Path
Click on "This program path" and then browse to find the app’s .exe file. Click Next after selecting the file.
Choosing the correct program path ensures the rule applies to the correct application.
Step 6: Block the Connection
Select "Block the connection" and click Next.
This tells the firewall to stop all internet traffic to and from the app.
Step 7: Apply Rule to All Profiles
Check all three profiles: Domain, Private, and Public, then click Next.
Applying the rule to all profiles ensures that the app is blocked regardless of the type of network you are connected to.
Step 8: Name the Rule
Give the rule a name and an optional description, then click Finish.
Naming your rule helps you easily identify it later if you need to make changes or delete it.
After following these steps, the app you specified will no longer be able to access the internet, helping you control its data usage or prevent unwanted connections.
Tips for Blocking Internet Access to an App in Windows 10
- Double-Check Program Path: Ensure the path you select is correct; otherwise, the rule won’t work.
- Test the Rule: After setting up the rule, open the app to make sure it can’t connect to the internet.
- Temporarily Disable: If you need to allow internet access temporarily, you can disable the rule instead of deleting it.
- Use Descriptive Names: When naming your rule, use a description that will remind you of its purpose.
- Backup Settings: Make a backup of your firewall settings before making changes, just in case you need to revert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I block internet access to more than one app?
Yes, you can repeat the steps for each app you need to block.
Does blocking an app affect its functionality?
Some apps may not work properly without internet access, so it’s best to test the app after blocking it.
Can I unblock the app later?
Absolutely, you can either disable or delete the rule you created to restore internet access.
Is there an easy way to manage these rules?
Yes, you can always return to the Windows Firewall with Advanced Security to view, edit, or delete your rules.
Does this method work for all versions of Windows?
This guide is specific to Windows 10, but similar steps can be applied to other versions with slight variations.
Summary of Steps
- Open Windows Defender Firewall: From the Start menu.
- Access Advanced Settings: Click "Advanced settings."
- Create a New Outbound Rule: Click "Outbound Rules," then "New Rule."
- Choose Program Option: Select "Program" and click Next.
- Select Program Path: Find and select the app’s .exe file.
- Block the Connection: Choose "Block the connection."
- Apply Rule to All Profiles: Check Domain, Private, and Public.
- Name the Rule: Give it a name and finish.
Conclusion
Blocking internet access to an app in Windows 10 can be quite handy for various reasons, whether it’s to save data, control usage, or secure your system. By following the steps we’ve outlined, you can easily configure your Windows Firewall to restrict an app’s internet access. This method is straightforward and doesn’t require any third-party software, making it accessible to anyone familiar with basic computer operations.
Remember, while these steps are designed to block an app’s internet access effectively, it’s always a good idea to test and make sure everything works as expected. If you ever need to reverse the action, you can simply disable or delete the firewall rule you created. Feel free to explore other settings in your Windows Firewall to get even more control over your network security. And if you found this guide helpful, why not share it with someone who might need it? Happy firewalling!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.