The open-source Windows firewall management tool Simplewall has been discontinued, as indicated by the archiving of its GitHub repository. This development has sparked discussions within the technical community about the future of the project and alternative solutions for Windows network traffic control.
Impact on Users and Community Response
The discontinuation has particularly affected users who relied on Simplewall's straightforward interface for managing Windows Filtering Platform (WFP). The tool had gained popularity for its ability to block Windows telemetry and provide granular control over network traffic. Community members have expressed concern about finding suitable replacements, with many noting Simplewall's unique combination of simplicity and powerful features.
Love this little app. Author did this once before. I hope he changes his mind. I would hate to need to look for a replacement.
Alternative Firewall Tools Suggested by Community:
- Fort (https://github.com/tnodir/fort)
- TinyWall (https://tinywall.pados.hu/)
- Windows Built-in Firewall
Key Features of Simplewall:
- Simple interface without pop-ups
- Rules editor for custom rules
- Internal blacklist for Windows telemetry
- Dropped packets logging
- Windows services support
- IPv6 support
Technical Implications and Alternatives
While some users have suggested maintaining the existing codebase through forks, security experts have cautioned against hasty handovers of project maintenance. The discussion has highlighted the challenges of Windows Filtering Platform implementation, with developers noting its complexity despite its powerful capabilities. Several alternatives have emerged from the community discussion, including Fort and TinyWall, though some users note these may require different trade-offs or configurations.
Open Source Maintenance Challenges
The situation has sparked a broader debate about the sustainability of open source projects and maintainer responsibilities. While some community members argue for clearer communication around project discontinuation, others emphasize that maintainers of free software projects have no obligation to provide ongoing support or explanations. This highlights the delicate balance between user expectations and maintainer autonomy in the open source ecosystem.
Looking Forward
For users seeking alternatives, the community has suggested several options including Fort, TinyWall, and even the native Windows Firewall, though each comes with its own set of trade-offs. The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of having backup solutions and the dynamic nature of open source software development.
Reference: simplewall