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Windows Defender Firewall is Preventing Connections: Fix

Learn to solve this issue with our step-by-step guide

4 min. read

Updated onSeptember 5, 2024

updated onSeptember 5, 2024

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Some users have posted on forums about an HSS DNS Leakerror messagethat blocks their Internet connections.

The full error readsContact your network administrator theWindows Defender Firewallrule HSS DNS leak is blocking your internet connection.

Another similar issue readsFailure: unable to access network data. this may be due to Windows Defender Firewall blocking act.

Thus, users can’t connect to the Internet when that error arises. Of course, at this point, Windows Defender Firewall is also preventing connections to your computer.

How do I stop the Windows Defender Firewallfrom blocking internet?

How do I stop the Windows Defender Firewallfrom blocking internet?

1. Uncheck the HSS DNS leak rule’s firewall permission

Users have confirmed that unchecking HSSDNSLeak’sPrivateandPublic checkboxes can fix the Windows Defender Firewall rule error so make sure you try the steps above.

2. Turn off Windows Defender Firewall

Alternatively, you can turn off Windows Defender Firewall completely to fix its HSS leak rule blocking the connection so try doing that by performing the steps above.

3. Reinstall Hotspot Shield

HSS is the Hotspot Shield VPN software, and users have said they’ve fixed the Windows Defender Firewall rule error by reinstalling Hotspot Shield.

4. Try another antivirus software

All these problems caused by Windows Defender Firewall can be avoided by installing a third-party antivirus because as soon as it’s on your system it will deactivate the built-in solution.

And not only that you will no longer have a blocked connection, but you will also have a lot better protection, at least with the security software recommended below.

This tool is focused on privacy and online protection and its multi-layered security solutions will ensure safe online payments and banking transactions wherever you are.

The program comes with a 30-day trial version so you can get the exact experience of the paid version before committing to buy it.

ESET HOME Security Essentials

That concludes our step-by-step guide to fix this Windows Defender issue with blocking the Internet connection and Wi-Fi and we hope that you can now use it freely.

However, if you’re tired of Windows Defender issues and errors, you can always look at ourtop antiviruses with unlimited licensesand get a better solution.

Often Windows Defender Firewall can give youAllow Chrome to access the network in your firewall or antivirus settings, but we have a guide that addresses this issue.

If you happen to know any other feasible solutions, don’t hesitate to write them in a comment in the section below.

More about the topics:Microsoft Windows Defender

Matthew Adams

Windows Hardware Expert

Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.

He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.

In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.

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Matthew Adams

Windows Hardware Expert

He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.