simplewall is a free networking utility for PC created by developer Henry++. It's a firewall program that can help users configure the Windows Filtering Platform used to handle network activity on computers running Windows. With it, they can control which applications are allowed to connect to the internet or not.

simplewall is built around the same concept as other firewall programs like Comodo Firewall or ZoneAlarm. What makes it different is that it does not try to become a standalone tool. Instead, it complements the already capable Windows Firewall Control and just adds to its functionality and capabilities.

How does simplewall work?

A firewall is a network security system that you can use to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic. It does so using a set of predefined rules for various programs. Setting up a proper firewall can be a bit tricky and involves some trial and error. This is why various programs have been developed to help simplify the process a bit, and simplewall is one such solution.

Unlike other standalone firewall tools that provide extensive feature sets and options, this program doesn’t really work on its own. Instead, it's meant to work in tandem with Windows' own firewall control features. It lets you decide how you want to use it. The default mode blocks everything, and you whitelist certain apps as exceptions. You can also opt to create a blacklist instead.

simplewall features a blocklist that is based on XML files that it comes with. It also logs all monitored activity that you can open or export for your reference. One thing that it does not provide, however, is a simple way to add or change rules. You will need to go into the aforementioned XML files and manually do everything there.

Setting up a firewall kept simple

If you value your privacy and want to keep an eye on your network activity, it's always a good idea to have a firewall up and running on your PC. Using simplewall, you'll be able to do just that without much of the hassle that usually involved in the process. It's fast, simple to learn, and offers decent control. Worth a look.