How to Fix “Security or Firewall Settings might be blocking the connection” Error?

The error message “Security or firewall settings might be blocking the connection”, suggests that a firewall has interfered with an internet connection to ensure the security of the device. Firewalls supervise network activities, permitting and denying connections based on predefined security protocols and rules. This error typically appears when firewall settings are misconfigured, which can result in the unwitting blockage of trustworthy connections.

Contributing factors to this error may also include incorrect network settings or the presence of third-party antivirus software and VPNs. 

1. Run Firewall Troubleshooter

Firewall troubleshooter is designed to efficiently scan for any conflicts within your firewall’s configuration that may be causing the blockage. By immediately pinpointing the specific problem areas, the troubleshooter can automate corrective measures, potentially restoring your connection without requiring in-depth technical knowledge on your part.

1. Go to the firewall troubleshooter webpage and select the Download button.
   
2. Open the utility by double-clicking on the file you downloaded, then execute the on-screen prompts to apply the recommended fix.
   

2. Reset Firewall and Network Settings

Improper firewall and network configurations can lead to connection issues. By reverting these settings to their original state, you effectively clear any custom rules or configurations that might be causing the connection blockage. This act serves to eliminate any improper setups that have accidentally prevented legitimate network traffic, potentially clearing the way for a smooth and unobstructed internet connection.

1. Press the Start Button, enter Windows Defender Firewall in the search box, and open it.
   
2. In the left pane, click on the Restore defaults button.
   
3. Click Restore defaults again in the following window, and confirm with Yes when prompted.
   
4. Press the Start button, type CMD in the search box, then right-click it and select Run as administrator.
   
5. To reset network settings, click on the Start button and then on the Settings icon.
   
6. Within the settings menu, choose Network & Internet.
   
7. Select the Network reset button located under Advanced network settings.
   
8. Finally, click on Reset now to revert network settings to their defaults.
   

3. Turn off VPN

By deactivating your VPN, you basically remove a layer of network configuration that can occasionally conflict with your firewall settings. VPNs often reroute traffic and modify connection limits to secure your online activities, which might mistakenly be perceived as a threat by your firewall.

Disabling the VPN temporarily helps identify whether it is the source of the connection issue. If the error is resolved after turning off the VPN, you’ll know the problem lies within the VPN’s network configurations and not with the firewall itself.

1. Press the Start button, type Task Manager into the search box, and open it.
   
2. In the list, find your VPN program, select it, then click End Task.
   

4. Disable Third-party Antivirus and Firewall (Temporarily)

Third-party antivirus solutions may enforce their own security policies and integrate personal firewall functions, possibly blocking Windows firewall’s operation. Temporarily disabling these programs may resolve the issue. Be aware that this could leave your system vulnerable to threats, so if the problem persists, be sure to reactivate your antivirus. Follow our comprehensive guide on how to disable antivirus programs on Windows.

5. Disable Windows Firewall

The firewall, designed to screen and block potentially harmful connections, can occasionally overreach and block even safe interactions. By turning it off, you remove this layer of inspection, potentially allowing the previously blocked connections to proceed without any issue.

However, it’s important to remember that this measure should be temporary and only considered after careful assessment of the associated risks. Re-enable the firewall promptly once the necessary checks are complete to make sure your system remains safeguarded against threats.

1. Press the Start button, type Firewall and Network Protection in the search box, and select it.
   
2. Choose Domain network.
   
3. Toggle the On & Off slider under Microsoft Defender Firewall to disable the firewall for the Domain network.
   
4. Repeat the previous steps to disable the firewall for both private and public networks as well.