Some programs like skype add automatic exceptions to windows firewall inbound rules. Is there a way to forbid this? I'm using built-in admin account, no uac.

Actually no, unless you go with a 3rd party firewall or hardware based firewall. You agreed to the software's terms to let it do whatever it wanted to during the install, to insure internet connectivity. The best way to avoid it is to not install programs like that. Either that or pay firewall subsriptions to give you more control.MCSE, MCSA, MCDST [If this post helps to resolve your issue, please click the "Mark as Answer" or "Helpful" button at the top of this message. By marking a post as Answered, or Helpful you help others find the answer faster.]

Hi, Generally, Windows Firewall asks if you want to allow to communicate through the firewall when you first run the programs. If you do not want some programs to communicate through the firewall, you may block them manually. 1.Open Windows Firewall by clicking the Start button, and then clicking Control Panel. In the search box, type firewall, and then click Windows Firewall. 2.In the left pane, click Allow a program or feature through Windows Firewall. 3.Uncheck the box next to the programs you want to block and click OK. For more information about Windows Firewall, you may refer to the following links: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/Allow-a-program-to-communicate-through-Windows-Firewall http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/Understanding-Windows-Firewall-settings Good luck!Arthur Li - MSFT