Can't Start Windows W10 Firewall

Just spent a week trying to start the W10 firewall. Dozens of Google recommended solutions but none work. Yes, Services reports it's automatic but it isn't running. Simply get an error message when I try to start it. Anyone else have the problem or a solution? Already ran sfc /scannow, Malicious Software Removal Tool, registry hacks and other suggestions. Also tried a 'clean install' but that didn't fix it.

capri3156 said:

Just spent a week trying to start the W10 firewall. Dozens of Google recommended solutions but none work. Yes, Services reports it's automatic but it isn't running. Simply get an error message when I try to start it. Anyone else have the problem or a solution? Already ran sfc /scannow, Malicious Software Removal Tool, registry hacks and other suggestions. Also tried a 'clean install' but that didn't fix it.

In the Services window where your Windows Firewall is not "running", look to the left column.
Do you see the Restart the service option ?
If yes, click it.

If you don't have the Restart option on the left column, follow this.............
In the same window, right click at Windows Firewall > click Properties > under Services status, click the Start button > OK when done.

See if your firewall service is now running.

hTconeM9user said:

Might be a stupid question but have you tried
Start Right Click
Control Panel
Then Firewall and click to open
Then go to turn Windows Firewall
On or Off

But don't forget if you have an antivirus on other than windows defender then that will if you have not disabled or uninstalled it allow Windows Firewall to come on.
Sorry if you have already tried that

Yes, that doesn't work. No anti-virus running.

davidhk said:

If you don't have the Restart option on the left column, follow this.............
In the same window, right click at Windows Firewall > click Properties > under Services status, click the Start button > OK when done.

See if your firewall service is now running.

I do have the "restart start" option on the left but that only brings up the usual error message.

capri3156 said:

I do have the "restart start" option on the left but that only brings up the usual error message.

Did you try the next suggestion ?
Right click at Windows Firewall > Properties .....................


**** Adding : what is the "usual error message "? Verbatim please.****

davidhk said:

Did you try the next suggestion ?
Right click at Windows Firewall > Properties .....................


**** Adding : what is the "usual error message "? Verbatim please.****

Finally gave it up. Used an image that still had most apps installed and firewall is running. Now I hope the MS updates don't turn it off .

capri3156 said:

Finally gave it up. Used an image that still had most apps installed and firewall is running. Now I hope the MS updates don't turn it off .

Yes, system restore and system image restore are the 2 useful programs which have had saved my system many times.
Good to know you have it sorted.
Please mark your thread as Solved so that others with similar issue would have a look at your solution.
Thank you.