How to disable the Windows XP firewall

Windows XP service pack 2 has a more advanced firewall than earlier versions. The method you use to disable the firewall depends on the version you have. If you are not certain what service pack level you have, see How to Determine Your Service Pack Level.

Windows XP, windows XP SP1

Select Start, click Networking and Internet Connections, then click Network Connections.
Right-click the connection on which you wish to disable the ICF, then on the pop-up menu select Properties.
Select the Advanced tab, and then click to clear the Protect my computer or network check box.
Click OK to close the Properties dialog, and then close the Network Connections window.

Windows XP SP2

Select Start, click Run, type firewall.cpl, and then hit the Enter key or select OK.
On the General tab, click Off (not recommended), and then click OK.

If you are not disabling the Windows firewall because you have installed an additional firewall, your computer will now be unprotected from hackers and worms. Unless you are connected over a firewalled router, you should seriously consider disconnecting your computer from the Internet until you again have firewall protection. An unprotected computer can become infected with a variant of the Blaster (or a similar worm) in a matter of minutes!