The Windows Firewall must allow outbound connections, unless a rule explicitly blocks the connection for the Public Profile.

Overview

Finding ID	Version	Rule ID	IA Controls	Severity
V-17439	5.474	SV-25241r2_rule	ECSC-1	Medium

Description
A firewall provides a line of defense against attack. To be effective, it must be enabled and properly configured. Outbound connections are allowed on a public network, unless a rule explicitly blocks the connection. This allows normal outbound communication which could be restricted as necessary with additional rules.

STIG	Date
Win7 Audit	2013-06-10

Details

Check Text ( None )
None

Fix Text (F-41963r2_fix)
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) -> Public Profile Tab -> State, "Outbound connections" to "Allow (default)". Configure a comparable setting if a third-party firewall is used.