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How to Fix Avast Firewall Not Turning On in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Avast Firewall is an important security feature that helps protect your Windows 11 PC from unauthorized access and threats. Sometimes, users experience issues where Avast Firewall does not turn on. This can leave your system vulnerable to attacks.

Fixing the Avast Firewall not turning on issue is usually straightforward. With a few simple steps, you can restore your firewall and keep your PC safe.

In this article, we will guide you through a series of easy-to-follow instructions to resolve the problem. Each step is explained clearly to help even beginners understand what to do.

Let’s get started and ensure your Avast Firewall is working properly again.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Make sure your Avast antivirus software is up to date. Sometimes, outdated software can cause firewall problems.
  • Verify that Windows 11 itself is updated to the latest version. Updates often fix bugs that may affect security features.
  • Check if any other firewall or security software is installed that might conflict with Avast Firewall.
  • Ensure you have administrative rights on your computer as some changes require admin access.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Before diving into complex fixes, simply restart your PC. This basic step resolves many temporary glitches that prevent Avast Firewall from starting.

Restarting clears any stuck processes or conflicts that might be blocking the firewall service.

How to restart:

  1. Click the Start button.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Choose Restart.

Step 2: Check Avast Firewall Settings

Sometimes, the firewall might be turned off in Avast’s settings by mistake. Let’s verify and enable it if needed.

Steps to enable Avast Firewall:

  1. Open the Avast antivirus application.
  2. Click on Protection in the left menu.
  3. Select Firewall.
  4. Check the toggle switch next to Firewall. If it is off, click it to turn it on.

If the toggle is grayed out or won’t switch on, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Run Avast Repair Tool

Avast includes a built-in repair tool that can fix corrupt or missing files causing the firewall to malfunction.

How to run the repair tool:

  1. Close Avast completely.
  2. Open Settings on Windows 11 by pressing Win + I.
  3. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
  4. Find Avast Antivirus in the list and click the three dots next to it.
  5. Select Modify.
  6. When the Avast setup window opens, choose Repair installation.
  7. Follow the on-screen instructions and wait for the process to complete.
  8. Restart your PC and check if the firewall turns on.

Step 4: Disable Conflicting Software

Other security programs or built-in Windows firewall may conflict with Avast Firewall. Disabling the Windows Firewall temporarily can help identify if this is the cause.

To disable Windows Firewall:

  1. Open the Start menu and search for Windows Security.
  2. Click Firewall & network protection.
  3. Select your active network (e.g., Domain, Private, or Public).
  4. Toggle off the switch for Microsoft Defender Firewall.

Note: Turn Windows Firewall back on after testing to keep your PC protected.

If Avast Firewall now turns on, you may need to choose which firewall to use or configure exceptions.

Step 5: Check Avast Firewall Service Status

Windows runs Avast Firewall as a service. If this service is stopped or disabled, the firewall won’t work.

How to check and start Avast Firewall service:

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the Services window, scroll down and find Avast Firewall.
  4. Right-click on it and select Properties.
  5. Set the Startup type to Automatic.
  6. If the service status is Stopped, click the Start button.
  7. Click Apply and then OK.

Close the Services window and try turning on the firewall again.

Step 6: Reinstall Avast Antivirus

If none of the above steps work, reinstalling Avast can fix deeper issues by resetting all program files and settings.

Uninstall Avast:

  1. Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
  2. Locate Avast Antivirus and select Uninstall.
  3. Follow the prompts to remove the software.

Reinstall Avast:

  1. Go to the official Avast website: https://www.avast.com
  2. Download the latest version compatible with Windows 11.
  3. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Once installed, launch Avast and check if the firewall can be activated.

FAQs

Why won’t Avast Firewall turn on?

This can happen due to software conflicts, corrupted files, disabled services, or outdated software versions.

Can I use Windows Firewall and Avast Firewall at the same time?

It’s not recommended to run two firewalls simultaneously as they may conflict and cause network issues.

Is Avast Firewall free to use?

Avast offers firewall protection as part of its premium plans. The free version includes basic antivirus but not the full firewall feature.

How do I know if Avast Firewall is working?

When enabled, Avast Firewall will show its status as “On” in the Avast app under Protection > Firewall. You may also see alerts when apps attempt unauthorized network access.

What if Avast Firewall keeps turning off by itself?

This may indicate malware interference or software conflicts. Running a full system scan and reinstalling Avast can help resolve this.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps and Avast Firewall still does not turn on, consider the following options:

  • Visit Avast’s official support page for advanced troubleshooting: https://support.avast.com
  • Contact Avast customer support for personalized assistance.
  • Check Windows Event Viewer for error messages related to Avast to provide more clues to technicians.
  • Consider using alternative firewall software if Avast remains incompatible with your system.

Conclusion

Avast Firewall is a vital layer of protection for your Windows 11 PC. When it fails to turn on, it can expose your computer to risks.

By following the simple steps outlined above—from restarting your PC and checking settings to repairing or reinstalling Avast—you can usually fix the problem quickly.

Remember to keep both Windows and Avast updated, avoid running multiple firewalls simultaneously, and ensure the Avast Firewall service is running properly.

With these guidelines, you should be able to restore your firewall and enjoy safer internet usage on your Windows 11 device.

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