Block access to a specific file, folder or application on Windows?

[P195]

Hello,

I run OPNsense on my mini pc router.

Is there any way I can create a rule to block a specific file, folder, or application on my windows host machine from having network access either natively or via a plugin? If so, how do I go about it?

Or does this need to be done on the host itself?
If so, is the built in windows firewall able to block network access for specific files, applications or whole folders?
If not, do you have any recommendations for good alternatives that allow this functionality?

Many Thanks
P195

[Patrick M. Hausen]

How should a file or a folder have "network access" or not? Only applications can do that. And yes, the Windows firewall can permit or block access for individual applications.

OPNsense does not know *what* on your Windows system tries to open a particular network connection, so OPNsense is the wrong place to address this requirement.

[P195]

Thank you for replying and confirming the answer to my question, I understand now that this would need to be done on the host machine itself.

If I use windows firewall to block the main .exe of a specific application, will that guarantee that the software will not be able to make any inbound or outbound connections from my network (via any file / location)?

Thanks for your help.
P195

[Patrick M. Hausen]

If I use windows firewall to block the main .exe of a specific application, will that guarantee that the software will not be able to make any inbound or outbound connections from my network (via any file / location)?

I assume yes, but to be sure you should consult a Windows specialist.