Problem with Windows firewall

[bukaida]

My windows firewall is not starting. virus problem? It is giving the error(in CP)-
Due to an unidentified problem,windows cannot display the firewall setting.
I have scanned the computer(with KAV), Ran System Mechanic pro, window washer, spysweeper but with no use.Please help.
PS. Thinking of installing Zone alarm pro.

[Vishal Gupta]

It'll be better if u switch to Zone Alarm firewall.

But regarding to ur problem, did u check whether the "Windows Firewall/Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)" service is running and set to Automatic in Computer Management?

[bukaida]

Yes, the service status is stopped and cannot be started.Tried to start manually also.

[Vishal Gupta]

Set its Startup to Automatic and then restart ur comp.

[anandk]

this could happen due to a corrupted shared access registry key.

go to services control panel.
ensure that your WindowsFirewall/ICS service is 'started' and set on
'automatic'
ensure the same (for the time being) for SecurityCenter service.
reboot.
download sharedacess.reg key from here. read the procedure
click http://windowsxp.mvps.org/sharedaccess.htm
double click on it to add it to ur registry.

[Third Eye]

switch to kaspersky internet security 2006..

[bukaida]

I have recently installed XP with sp2 and all latest update(by automatic update option). In the local services (both in standard and extended) there is
no entry like Windows Firewall/ICS service.where else can I find it?

Many Thanx anandk. Your link solved the problem.