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Hamachi is a popular VPN application used to create secure virtual networks. Sometimes, Windows 11’s firewall may block Hamachi, causing connection errors. Allowing Hamachi through the firewall ensures it can communicate freely without interruptions.

This guide will walk you through the simplest steps to allow Hamachi through your Windows 11 firewall. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along.

By the end of this article, you should be able to fix common connection errors related to Hamachi and enjoy seamless network access.

Let’s get started with some quick notes before diving into the detailed steps.

Quick Note Before You Begin

• Make sure Hamachi is installed on your computer before adjusting firewall settings.
• Check that you have administrative privileges on your Windows 11 PC.
• Verify that your internet connection is stable to avoid unrelated connectivity issues.
• Temporarily disabling third-party antivirus software may help identify if it’s also blocking Hamachi.

Step 1: Open Windows Security

First, you need to access the Windows Security settings where the firewall controls are located.

1. Click on the Start menu (Windows icon) at the bottom-left corner of your screen.
2. Type Windows Security in the search bar and press Enter.
3. In the Windows Security window, click on Firewall & network protection.

This section lets you manage how the firewall behaves for different network profiles (public, private, domain).

Step 2: Allow an App Through the Firewall

Now, you will explicitly allow Hamachi to communicate through the firewall.

1. In the Firewall & network protection page, scroll down and click on Allow an app through firewall.
2. A new window titled Allowed apps will open. Click on the Change settings button at the top-right. You may be prompted for administrator permission, click Yes.
3. Look for LogMeIn Hamachi in the list. If it’s there, make sure both Private and Public checkboxes are checked.
4. If Hamachi is not listed, click on the Allow another app… button at the bottom.
5. In the new dialog, click Browse… and navigate to the Hamachi program folder, usually found at C:Program Files (x86)LogMeIn Hamachi.
6. Select hamachi-2-ui.exe or the main executable file and click Open.
7. Click Add to include Hamachi in the allowed apps list.
8. Make sure both Private and Public checkboxes are checked for Hamachi.
9. Click OK to save your changes.

Allowing Hamachi on both private and public networks ensures it works regardless of your current network type.

Step 3: Create Inbound and Outbound Firewall Rules (Optional Advanced Step)

If you still face connection problems, setting up specific firewall rules for Hamachi can help.

1. Open the Start menu, type Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security, and press Enter.
2. In the left sidebar, click on Inbound Rules.
3. Click New Rule… in the right Actions panel.
4. Select Program and click Next.
5. Click Browse… and navigate to Hamachi’s executable file (hamachi-2-ui.exe), then click Next.
6. Choose Allow the connection and click Next.
7. Make sure all three profiles (Domain, Private, and Public) are checked, then click Next.
8. Give the rule a name, like Hamachi Inbound, and click Finish.
9. Repeat the above steps for Outbound Rules to ensure outgoing traffic is also allowed.

This step creates explicit permissions, preventing the firewall from blocking any Hamachi traffic.

Alternative Method: Temporarily Disable Firewall to Test

If you want to quickly check if the firewall is causing Hamachi connection issues, you can temporarily turn it off. However, only do this briefly and turn it back on soon after.

1. Go to Windows Security > Firewall & network protection.
2. Select your current network profile (e.g., Private network).
3. Toggle the switch to Off for Windows Defender Firewall.
4. Try connecting with Hamachi again.
5. Remember to turn the firewall back On immediately after testing.

This method helps you confirm if the firewall is the root cause but is not a permanent solution.

FAQs About Allowing Hamachi Through Firewall on Windows 11

Why does Hamachi need firewall access?

Hamachi creates a virtual private network by sending and receiving data over the internet. The firewall blocks unknown or unauthorized apps by default. Allowing Hamachi through the firewall ensures it can send and receive data freely.

Can I allow Hamachi on only private networks?

Yes, but if you switch between different network types (like home and public Wi-Fi), Hamachi might get blocked on networks where it’s not allowed. It’s safest to allow it on both private and public networks.

Is it safe to allow Hamachi through the firewall?

Hamachi is a trusted application by LogMeIn. Allowing it through the firewall is safe as long as you download it from official sources and keep it updated.

What if Hamachi still doesn’t connect after allowing it through the firewall?

Try restarting your computer, checking your router settings, or temporarily disabling antivirus software. You can also create inbound and outbound firewall rules as described above.

Do I need to allow Hamachi on other devices on my network?

Yes, if you want to create a network between multiple computers, each device must have Hamachi installed and properly allowed through its firewall.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve followed all the steps and Hamachi still won’t connect, consider these final options:

• Check the official Hamachi support page: https://support.logmeininc.com/hamachi
• Reinstall Hamachi to ensure no corrupted files are causing the issue.
• Reset Windows Firewall to default settings using Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall > Restore defaults.
• Contact your network administrator if you are on a managed network.

Conclusion

Allowing Hamachi through the Windows 11 firewall is essential to prevent connection errors. By following the simple steps of opening Windows Security, allowing Hamachi as an app through the firewall, and optionally creating advanced rules, you can ensure smooth operation.

Remember to verify network profiles and keep your system secure by only allowing trusted applications. If problems persist, official support and troubleshooting options are available to help resolve complex issues.

With these instructions, you should now be able to fix Hamachi connection errors and enjoy hassle-free virtual networking on Windows 11.