How to disable the Windows XP firewall

Go to Start -> All Programs -> Accessories -> Run and enter "network.cpl" (without the quotes) in the edit field. Press the Enter key on the keyboard or select OK.
In the Windows Firewall window select Change settings. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
In the Windows Firewall Settings dialog box select the On (recommended) setting to turn the firewall on, or Off (Not recommended) setting to turn it off.
If you are turning the firewall on, check the Block all incoming connections checkbox according to your needs. Select the Tell me more about these settings link at the bottom of the dialog for more information.
Select Apply.
Select OK, then close the Windows Firewall dialog.

Windows XP

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

Go to Start -> Networking and Internet Connections -> Network Connections.
Right-click the connection on which you wish to enable or disable the ICF, and then on the pop-up menu select Properties.
Select the Advanced tab, and then click to check or uncheck 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

Go to Start -> Run and enter "network.cpl" (without the quotes) in the edit field. Press the Enter key on the keyboard or select OK.
In the Windows Firewall Settings dialog box select the On (recommended) setting to turn the firewall on, or Off (Not recommended) setting to turn it off.
If you are turning the firewall on, check the Don't allow exceptions checkbox according to your needs. Select the What else should I know about Windows Firewall link at the bottom of the dialog for more information.
Select Apply.
Select OK, then close the Windows Firewall dialog.

Windows 2000

Windows 2000 does not include a firewall as part of the system. If you have installed a third party firewall, start it and enable it or disable it as required. The program's help function should provide instructions on how to do this if you have any questions about how to do so. If you do not have a firewall installed on your computer, you can find links to sites that provide free firewalls here: Use an firewall program to protect your computer.

Caution: 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 under some circumstances become infected with a virus or worm in a matter of minutes!