Windows Vista FAQ 2. How do I customize the Windows Firewall to allow certain apps to bypass it?
A. By default, the firewall is configured to block outbound as well as inbound connections. If you want to allow certain inbound applications through, select Control Panel, Allow a program through Windows Firewall (under Security), and use the Exceptions screen. To configure outbound connections and to customize the Windows Firewall in various ways, type wf.msc at a command prompt and press Enter. The resulting Windows Firewall with Advanced Security screen will give you control over many aspects of the firewall.