How to Export or Back Up Windows Firewall Rules

This updated guide explains how to Export or Back Up Windows Firewall Rules through clear steps, practical examples, and important checks that help prevent common errors.

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.

Export or Back Up Windows Firewall Rules — Step by Step Instructions to Back Up Windows Firewall Rules screenshot 1

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 .

Export or Back Up Windows Firewall Rules — Step by Step Instructions to Back Up Windows Firewall Rules screenshot 2

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 may need 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.

Export or Back Up Windows Firewall Rules — Import or Restore Backups screenshot 3

Click the Yes button to continue

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

Export or Back Up Windows Firewall Rules — Import or Restore Backups screenshot 4

Go to the location where you may need 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.

FAQ

What is the easiest way to Export or Back Up Windows Firewall Rules?

Start with the requirements in this guide, then follow each step in order. Check the result after every major change so problems are easier to identify.