Configuring Windows Firewall for Local Proxy Forwarders

When running local proxy apps (such as SOCKS5 desktop clients or port forwarders) on a Windows PC to share proxies with your WifiSocks router, Windows Defender Firewall must allow incoming local network connections. This guide walks you through creating the required firewall rule in Windows.

[!NOTE] Neutral Tool Notice: WifiSocks is an independent routing software platform. WifiSocks does not operate or sell third-party proxy tools. Users configure their own network environments.

1. Step-by-Step Firewall Setup

Open Windows Firewall Advanced Settings

1. Open the Windows Start menu.
2. Search for and open Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security.

3. In the left sidebar, click Inbound Rules.

Option A: Allow the Proxy Application (Easiest)

1. Look through the Inbound Rules list for your proxy application name.
2. Right-click the application entry and select Properties.

3. Under the General tab, select Allow the connection.
4. Click OK to save.

5. Repeat for any other entries associated with the application.

Option B: Open the Proxy Port Range

If your application is not in the list, open its listening ports directly:

1. In the right-hand Actions panel, click New Rule…

2. Rule Type: Select Port and click Next.
3. Protocol and Ports:
   • Select TCP.
   • Select Specific local ports and enter your port or range (for example: 40000-40100 or 40000).
   • Click Next.
4. Action: Select Allow the connection and click Next.
5. Profile: Make sure Private and Domain networks are checked → Click Next.
6. Name: Type WifiSocks Local Proxy and click Finish.

2. Testing Connection with the Router

1. Open the WifiSocks router dashboard (http://192.168.105.1).
2. Go to Proxy Routing and assign your forwarded proxy (e.g. socks5://192.168.105.99:40000) to a test device.
3. Click Update.
4. The router will perform a handshake. If the firewall rule is correct and the desktop app is listening, the device will connect immediately.