Stupid question about Windows firewall

[Deadjasper]

I'm really not sure if it does anything useful but...... under the exceptions tab, exactly what does it mean if a program is listed? also, what does it mean if it's checked or unchecked.

I hate to ask such a dumb question but it really isn't obvious.

Also, I'm not sure if it will even block outgoing connections. Will it?

Thanks for any enlightenment you can offer.

 

[Lugztaz]

if' it's checked then it allows the program, and it only blocks incoming traffic

 

[Deadjasper]

Thanks, I thought it was useless and now i know. In fact, it's less than useless because it gives people a false sense of security. I'm more worried about malware calling home and sending out spam than I am about hackers.

 

[YeOldeStonecat]

Thanks, I thought it was useless and now i know. In fact, it's less than useless because it gives people a false sense of security. I'm more worried about malware calling home and sending out spam than I am about hackers.

It's not useless, if you run quality antivirus like NOD32 or Kapersky, and have your system secured properly, and stay away from those P2P programs which trash computers, or warez stuff, you don't have to worry.