5 best two-way firewalls for Windows 10
- Security solutions are paramount and there is no shortage of efficient tools to shield your PC.
- If you're looking for more complex protection, give these antiviruses with two-way firewalls a try.
- Check out more solutions to encrypt and protect your network traffic.
- Finally, don't forget to take a virtual tour of our Antivirus Library.
Using an antivirus is important if you want to protect your PC, and sometimes you might want to prevent certain applications from accessing the Internet.
To do that, you need to use a firewall, and today we’re going to show you the best two-way firewall for Windows 10.
What is a two way firewall?
There are two types of firewalls, and a one-way firewall will protect your PC from incoming threats.
On the other hand, a two-way firewall will prevent malicious applications that you might have on your PC from connecting to the Internet.
As you can see, a two-way firewall adds another layer of protection, so it’s a must-have tool if you want to protect your PC.
There are many standalone two-way firewall applications for Windows, but many antiviruses also have a built-in two-way firewall that can protect your PC.
Which firewall is the best?
Bitdefender Internet Security
Bitdefender Antivirus is a well-known security software that offers great protection, but unfortunately, this version doesn’t have a built-in firewall.
If you want an application that combines both antivirus and two-way firewall into one, you should definitely consider Bitdefender Internet Security.
This tool has a built-in two-way firewall that will prevent malicious applications from accessing the Internet.
In addition, this application has full data protection so it will protect you from malware and spyware alike.
It’s also worth mentioning that Bitdefender Internet Security has a multi-layer ransomware protection so your files will remain protected from malicious applications.
As for other security features, there’s phishing and fraud protection that will prevent hackers from stealing your personal information.
Let’s quickly look at its key features:
- Safe Files feature to prevent applications from accessing certain files
- Secure browsing feature to mark unsafe websites so you won’t visit them by accident
- Rescue Mode that can scan your system before Windows starts and remove hidden malware
- Parental control, password manager, and a file shredder
- Anti-theft protection for your device, phishing and fraud protection
- Malware and multi-layer ransomware protection
- Social network and webcam protection
Bitdefender
Looking for a great antivirus with a built-in two-way firewall as well? Bitdefender Internet Security will tick all your boxes and more.BullGuard Internet Security
BullGuard is another antivirus software that comes with a built-in two-way firewall. Keep in mind that the basic version of BullGuard doesn’t have a firewall, so we’re going to cover the versions that have it.
BullGuard Internet Security has a triple layer malware detection so it will easily detect any malicious applications and quarantine them before they can do any damage.
As for the firewall, it offers Application Filtering and end-to-end protection.
This version also has a Parental Control feature so you can easily block harmful websites, block certain search queries, monitor, and limit online activity.
Another great feature is the Vulnerability scanner that scans your PC for any weak spots. Thanks to this feature, you’ll be informed if you’re using an insecure Wi-Fi network or if you’re missing security updates.
Lastly, this version also has a Game Booster mode so you can enjoy your favorite video games without any security notifications and interruptions.
Let’s quickly look at its key features:
- Antivirus, anti-spyware, ransomware protection
- Safe browsing, anti-phishing protection
- Vulnerability scanner
- Two-way firewall
- Parental control
BullGuard Internet Security
BullGuard is a great security tool, and with a two-way firewall, you’ll be sure that malicious applications won’t access your assets without your knowledge.Panda
Panda Antivirus is another security software that comes with a built-in two-way firewall.
The firewall feature is available in the Panda Antivirus Pro version, which is a major plus. In addition to a firewall, the application provides real-time protection for your Windows PC and Android device.
Fraud and identity theft protection are also included, so you can easily protect your personal data online. The Pro version offers great features, and if you need an antivirus with a built-in firewall, be sure to try it out.
For more security, there’s a Panda Internet Security version that offers unique features such as parental control and file backup.
This version also has a Data Shield feature so you can easily protect your data from ransomware.
For ultimate security, there’s the Panda Global Protection version. This version has a built-in password manager as well as file encryption and file shredder.
Lastly, there’s a Tuneup feature that can optimize your PC.
Panda Antivirus is a solid antivirus application, and with a built-in two-way firewall, it’s a full security solution for your Windows PC.
⇒ Get Panda now
ZoneAlarm Pro Firewall
If your current security software doesn’t have a built-in firewall, you might be interested in ZoneAlarm Pro Firewall.
The application uses a two-way firewall and it allows you to keep a close eye on both inbound and outbound traffic.
ZoneAlarm will monitor your applications for suspicious behavior, and inform you if any security infringement occurs.
The application offers advanced-access protection that can detect advanced attacks such as SCM and COM attacks.
In addition, the application can also prevent silent outbreaks from gaining control over your PC.
It’s worth mentioning that your PC will be protected even during the startup phase thanks to the Application Control and Early Boot Protection features.
Let’s quickly look at its key features:
- Anti-spam filter and wireless protectionÂ
- Automatic Wireless Network Security feature that detects the wireless network and automatically applies the best security policies
- Identity and data protection that will protect your sensitive data from malicious users
- Online backup so you can back up your data easily online
- DefenseNet feature so you’ll get security updates in real-time and remain protected from latest threats
Avast Internet Security
If you’re looking for an antivirus with a two-way firewall, Avast Internet Security might be just what you need.
Avast Internet Security has a real-time scanner that can protect you from malware and ransomware.
The application also has a Wi-Fi vulnerability scanner so you can easily detect unsafe Wi-Fi networks.
In addition, the application has a built-in password manager, so all your passwords will be protected from hackers.
Let’s quickly look at its key features:
- Two-way firewall so you can easily block suspicious applications from accessing the Internet
- Phishing and fraud protection that will prevent hackers from stealing your personal information
- Spam protection and additional ransomware security layer
- Sandbox mode that allows you to run suspicious applications in a safe environment without affecting your PC
- Webcam protection that will prevent malicious users from spying on you. File shredder feature so you can permanently delete your files
⇒ Download Avast
Many antivirus solutions come with a built-in two-way firewall, and if you’re looking for such a solution, don’t miss out on our top recommandations.
Which was is your favorite? Feel free to share your choice via the comments section below.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in January 2018 and has been since revamped and updated in October 2020 for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.