Best Free Firewalls: Top Choices for PC Security in 2026

• Written by Sayb Saad Former Writer
• Fact-Checked by Sarah Frazier Former Content Manager
• Reader’s Comments 2

Most computers already come with a built-in firewall, but that doesn’t always give you the visibility or control you need to stay safe. If you’ve ever wondered whether Windows Firewall alone is enough, the truth is, it only works for basic defense. But extra tools can make it easier to monitor threats, block risky connections, and keep your network secure.

I tested the best free firewalls available to see which ones improve protection without slowing down your PC. These picks are reliable for everyday use. That said, free firewalls have limits, so if you want complete security, a premium suite like Norton 360 is the stronger choice . Its Smart Firewall works alongside advanced antivirus features to give you airtight protection.

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Quick Guide: Best Free Firewalls in 2026

1. ZoneAlarm — Two-way firewall blocks hackers while auto-learning apps and reduces annoying pop-ups, but it lacks advanced malware defenses.
2. Comodo — HIPS and auto-sandboxing trap suspicious apps before they can harm your PC. It’s powerful but can overwhelm beginners with constant prompts.
3. GlassWire — Real-time network graphs make it easy to spot and block shady apps instantly. The free version limits you to blocking only 2 apps at a time.
4. TinyWall — Silent protection shields you without pop-ups and offers strong whitelist controls. Some apps may need manual approval before they work smoothly.
5. Lockdown Privacy Desktop — Blocks trackers and ads on iOS and macOS to keep all app traffic private, but it’s not available for Windows.

The Best Free Firewalls for PC Protection (Tested in 2026)

1. ZoneAlarm — Two-Way Control and Smart App Learning Keep You Secure

Key Features:

• Monitors inbound and outbound traffic for network security
• Auto-switches to safer mode when you connect to open networks
• Lets you choose between Auto-Learn for fewer pop-ups or Max Security
• Runs efficiently in the background with minimal system impact
• Fully supports Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11

ZoneAlarm’s biggest strength is its two-way firewall , which monitors incoming and outgoing traffic. It blocks hackers from sneaking in and stops shady apps from secretly sending your data out. This gives you visibility and control that Windows Defender doesn’t, so you always know what’s moving through your network.

Its WiFi protection automatically locks down risky connections , keeping attackers from hijacking your laptop while you browse at a cafe or airport. You don’t have to mess with complex settings either — the firewall quietly adjusts in the background, so you can focus on getting things done without worrying about your security.

You can choose how hands-on you want to be with ZoneAlarm. For instance, you can set it to auto-learn safe apps and reduce pop-ups to keep things simple. For more control, you can dig into program rules and tailor the firewall’s behavior. The interface feels straightforward, so whether you’re a beginner or someone who likes to fine-tune, you won’t feel out of your depth.

Of course, it’s not a full replacement for an antivirus. You won’t see the deeper defenses against phishing or advanced exploits. But if you want a lightweight firewall that installs in minutes and gives you real control over your traffic, ZoneAlarm Free is one of the best free options around .

2. Comodo — HIPS and Sandboxing Catch Threats Other Firewalls Miss

Key Features:

• Built-in HIPS watches how apps behave and blocks suspicious actions
• Auto-sandboxing runs unknown apps in isolation, keeping your files and data safe
• Two-way firewall protection lets you monitor traffic and create custom rules
• Stealth Ports mode hides your computer from network scans
• Works on Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11

Comodo’s Host Intrusion Prevention System (HIPS), paired with auto-sandboxing, blocks suspicious connections. It watches how apps behave and isolates anything untrusted in a safe container. That way, even if malware tries to run, it’s trapped before it can harm your system. This behavior-based layer gives you a level of control that few free firewalls offer.

Beyond HIPS, Comodo includes two-way traffic monitoring with customizable rules . You can see exactly which programs are trying to connect online and decide what gets through. This makes it much easier to spot apps phoning home without permission. For power users, the ability to fine-tune every connection rule is a huge advantage.

Another standout is Comodo’s Default Deny Protection. Instead of trusting unknown apps until proven harmful, it flips the model and blocks anything unrecognized until you allow it. This proactive stance makes your system less vulnerable to new or rare threats. You stay in control of what runs, and that helps reduce the risk of zero-day exploits slipping by.

That said, Comodo isn’t the most beginner-friendly firewall . The constant prompts can overwhelm you if you’re not comfortable making security decisions. It also requires more setup than tools like ZoneAlarm. But if you want a Windows-only firewall that delivers advanced security features normally reserved for paid suites.

3. GlassWire — Real-Time Network Graphs That Show Exactly What’s Using Your Data

Key Features:

• Stores a detailed history of network events so you can review suspicious activity later
• Runs quietly without slowing your PC or interrupting your online activities
• Block network access for up to 2 apps directly from the dashboard
• Alerts about any unknown WiFi connections
• Works on Windows and Android

GlassWire’s real-time network graph shows you how apps are using your data , so you can instantly spot unusual activity through simple, color-coded visuals. This makes it easy to tell if an unknown app is hogging bandwidth or connecting to suspicious servers. With one click, you can block that process and stop the threat in its tracks.

The free firewall offers Click-to-Block, but you’re limited to controlling just 2 apps unless you upgrade. Notifications are another useful touch. Each time a new program connects online, you get a prompt so you can decide whether to keep an eye on it.

GlassWire also logs your past activity so you can rewind and trace exactly when an app started consuming data. This timeline makes it easier to link spikes to hidden tasks you may have missed. The only drawback is that its firewall works only on Windows PCs . However, you can still track unusual data usage with its Android app.

4. TinyWall — Silent Firewall That Protects Without Pop-Ups

Key Features:

• Actively maintained to keep up with new Windows versions and evolving threats
• Comes translated into several languages, including English, Spanish, and German
• Developed under the GPLv3 license, so its code is transparent
• Uses no kernel drivers, which reduces crash risks
• Works on Windows only

TinyWall is built for people who don’t want constant pop-ups interrupting their work. Instead of nagging you for every decision, it blocks threats silently and lets you whitelist only the apps you trust. An Automatic Learning Mode helps you quickly approve your everyday programs. This way, you stay secure without being bombarded by alerts.

To strengthen protection, TinyWall includes a password-lock for settings, temporary rules, and quick modes that instantly block all traffic if needed. It also comes with built-in blocklists, hosts-file protection, and boot-time filtering so threats are stopped before Windows even finishes starting up. These tools make it tougher for malware to sneak past unnoticed.

It also works with modern Windows technologies like UWP apps and WSL. UWP apps are programs you download from the Microsoft Store, while WSL lets you run Linux tools inside Windows. The only catch is that some apps may not work right away until you whitelist them, but once you do, TinyWall remembers your choices and won’t bother you again.

5. Lockdown Privacy — Block Trackers and Ads Across All Your Apps

Key Features:

• Stops apps and websites from sending your data to third-party trackers
• 100% free and transparent, with its full codebase publicly available for review
• Blocks or allows individual apps from making network connections
• Simple install process with a clean interface
• Fully compatible with macOS and iOS

Lockdown Privacy is one of the only free firewalls built specifically for iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Its standout feature is a system-wide tracker and ad blocking, which works across every app you use, not just your web browser. Because the firewall runs entirely on your device, no data ever leaves your phone or computer for filtering.

You can control what gets blocked with simple tools. Pre-loaded block lists stop thousands of known trackers , but you can also add your domains to a Block List or whitelist sites if something you need gets filtered. It routes traffic through a local interface on your device, meaning connections are screened before they leave your network.

One thing to note is that Lockdown is only available for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS — there’s no Windows version . Also, it’s focused on domain-level blocking rather than advanced packet inspection. If you want a secure VPN, that’s offered separately as a paid add-on.

Premium Antiviruses With Firewalls in 2026

1. Norton — Smart Firewall and IPS for Complete Network Defense

Key Features:

• Offers a highly intuitive and configurable firewall
• Stops hackers from exploiting open ports
• Includes ARP and DNS spoofing protection for improved safety
• Protects WiFi networks from SSL man-in-the-middle attacks
• Defends against unsafe websites and other online threats

Norton’s Smart Firewall blocks suspicious inbound and outbound connections. Paired with IPS (Intrusion Prevention System), it inspects web traffic for exploit kits, man-in-the-middle attacks, and browser-based threats. This layered defense works on both Windows and macOS, giving you far more than the bare-bones protection built into your OS.

On top of that, Norton’s strong antivirus core guards against ransomware, spyware, and phishing in real time. You also get a password manager and 2GB of cloud backup on Windows PCs to protect your most important files from ransomware lockouts. Similarly, Safe Search auto-detects malicious sites before you open them.

What I like most is how smoothly it runs day-to-day. The firewall rarely interrupts you , but when it does, the alerts are straightforward — telling you exactly which app is acting up and why. The base plan covers 1 device, but Norton AntiVirus Plus is also available in a 5-device license if you want to extend protection across your household.

The only drawback is that VPN access, parental controls, and larger cloud storage are locked to higher Norton tiers. That said, Norton 360 Deluxe is the sweet spot . It covers 5 devices, adds a VPN, and gives you 50 GB of backup space. And with Norton’s 60-day money-back guarantee on annual plans, you can try it completely risk-free.

2. McAfee — Advanced Firewall With One-Click Lockdown for Total Control

Key Features:

• Advanced firewall with per-app rules, emergency lockdown, and flexible strictness
• Excellent real-time protection against malware, spyware, and ransomware
• WebAdvisor prevents access to phishing sites and malicious downloads
• Works on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android
• 30-day refund policy on new plans and 60-day refunds for annual auto-renewals

McAfee’s Advanced Firewall gives you precise control over how apps connect to the internet. Instead of blindly trusting software, you can set rules for each program and block anything suspicious. I like the built-in Lockdown button — with one click, it severs all network traffic. If you’re ever unsure about a potential attack.

The firewall isn’t working alone. McAfee’s antivirus and web protection block phishing pages and malicious downloads before they even touch your machine. In my testing, a Trojan-laced installer was flagged and stopped by Web Advisor, so the firewall never had to step in. This layered approach means fewer false alarms and more consistent security.

Daily use feels pretty beginner-friendly. For instance, alerts spell out which app is asking for access and what that connection would do. You can quickly allow or deny without digging through menus. Similarly, McAfee’s WebAdvisor color‑codes links in your social media feeds (and warns if a URL is mistyped), so even accidental clicks get blocked or flagged beforehand.

McAfee’s full scans can slow down older PCs , but you can schedule them outside work hours to avoid interruptions. On my modern setup, performance stayed smooth throughout testing. The Essential plan is the best value, covering up to 5 devices under one subscription. You also get a 30-day money-back guarantee, extended to 60 days with auto-renewal.

3. Intego — 2-Way Mac Firewall With Auto-Switching Profiles and Real-Time Malware Protection

Key Features:

• NetBarrier adapts its firewall rules instantly when you move between WiFi networks
• Shows which apps are using network resources
• Create precise inbound and outbound permissions per app for tighter control
• Choose 1, 3, or 5-device plans to protect all the Macs in your household
• Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee

Intego’s NetBarrier gives you a true two-way firewall on Mac that watches inbound attacks and stops data from sneaking out, then auto-switches profiles (Home, Work, Public Hotspot) when you change networks. You get the right rules without fiddling every time you join a WiFi. It’s bundled with VirusBarrier for always-on malware protection.

Control is granular when you need it. You can set per-app rules, create exceptions by channel (incoming/outgoing, Internet/local), and even block untrusted devices trying to reach your Mac on shared networks. An Application Monitor shows which apps are using bandwidth right now, so noisy software is easy to spot and tame. It’s clear, visual, and fast to act on

The only limitation is that Intego’s firewall is Mac-only , but that’s understandable since it’s an Apple-focused service to begin with. For most Mac users, the Mac Internet Security X9 (3-Mac) plan is the best value. It pairs NetBarrier with VirusBarrier for complete device-level protection. And Intego backs purchases with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free

Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. That said, our detailed reviews follow a strict methodology that examines all relevant performance factors to help you arrive at your own informed conclusion.

Comparison Table: 2026’s Best Free Firewalls in 2026

How I Tested & Ranked the Top Free Firewall Software

I tested each firewall and measured how well it actually protected against modern threats without slowing me down. These are the five key factors that shaped my rankings:

• Two-way protection — A firewall isn’t effective if it only blocks incoming attacks. I prioritized firewalls that also monitor and control outbound traffic, stopping infected apps from secretly sending your data online.
• Intrusion prevention & stealth mode — Hackers often scan for open ports to find an entry point. The best free firewalls hide these ports (“stealth mode”) and actively block suspicious intrusion attempts.
• Ease of use vs. advanced control — Not everyone wants to tinker with rules. I ranked tools higher if they were easy for beginners while still offering deeper settings for power users who need fine-grained control.
• Integration with antivirus or threat tools — Since most free firewalls don’t have malware scanners, I looked at whether they added useful extras like ARP spoofing protection, botnet blocking, or seamless antivirus pairing.
• System performance impact — Security means little if your device slows to a crawl. I measured CPU, RAM, and network usage to ensure each firewall ran efficiently in the background without disrupting everyday tasks.

Secure Your Devices Using the Best Firewall in 2026

A firewall is your first line of defense when you’re online , especially if you’re hopping on public WiFi at a cafe or airport. Free options can block intrusions and sneaky spoofing attacks. They’re definitely better than leaving your system wide open, but they only go so far. If you want real peace of mind, you’ll need protection that digs deeper than just traffic control.

That’s why I lean toward a premium antivirus because it shields you from malware, phishing, and ransomware too. Norton is one of the easiest to use, yet it packs serious power with its built-in firewall and security extras. You can try Norton risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee, and you can test-drive it without any risk.

Summary — The Best Antiviruses in 2026

Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. That said, our detailed reviews follow a strict methodology that examines all relevant performance factors to help you arrive at your own informed conclusion.