Local firewall rules for the Windows Firewall must not be merged with group policy rules for the Private Profile.

From Windows 7 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Part of Windows Firewall Private - Local Firewall Rules

Associated with IA controls: ECSC-1

SV-25234r2_rule Local firewall rules for the Windows Firewall must not be merged with group policy rules for the Private Profile.

Vulnerability discussion

A firewall provides a line of defense against attack. To be effective, it must be enabled and properly configured. Merging local firewall rules with group policy firewall rules may weaken intended group policy firewall configurations.

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Fix text

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Windows Firewall with Advanced Security -> Windows Firewall with Advanced Security -> Windows Firewall Properties (this link will be in the right pane) -> Private Profile Tab -> Settings (select Customize) -> Rule merging, "Apply local firewall rules" to "No". Configure a comparable setting if a third-party firewall is used.

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