How to export or back up Windows Firewall rules

When you configure the firewall, it is important that you back up all Windows Firewall rules for safety and security.

In this quick guide, TipsMake.com will show you the steps to back up Windows Firewall rules in Windows 10.

Note : The guide also applies to Windows 7 and 8 as well as Windows 10.

Step by step instructions to back up Windows Firewall rules

To back up Windows Firewall rules, we'll use the built-in export feature in Advanced Settings. Because this exported file contains all firewall rules, you only need to recover the file to get all the rules back.

1. First, open the Start menu , search for Windows Defender Firewall and click the result to open Windows Firewall. If needed, you can also use the Run command "control Firewall.cpl" to open Windows Firewall.

2. When you are in the Firewall screen, click the Advanced Settings link that appears on the left.

3. In the Advanced Settings window , select the Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security on Local Computer option on the left.

4. Next, click the Action> Export Policy option on the top navigation bar.

Click the Action option> Export Policy

5. You will see the Save As window . Here, select the destination folder / drive, give the file a name and click the Save button .

You will see the Save As window

Windows Firewall rules have been backed up successfully. You can view the backup file at the selected destination location.

Import or restore backups

When you want to enter firewall rules, you can do it easily.

1. First, open the Windows Defender Firewall and go to the Advanced Settings screen (see steps 1 and 2 in the first section).

2. Now, select Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security on Local Computer and then click Action> Import Policy .

3. You will see a message stating that the import will override all existing rules. Click the Yes button to continue.

Click the Yes button to continue

4. Go to the location where you want to save the file, select the file and click the Open button .

Go to the location where you want to save the file, select the file and click the Open button

The Windows Firewall backup file will be imported and all rules will be restored to the previous backup.