Quick Summary
The error code 0x80070422 indicates that a service required by Windows Firewall is not running or is disabled. This typically prevents the firewall from starting or functioning correctly, leaving your system vulnerable.
Common Causes
- Windows Firewall Service Disabled: The Windows Firewall service itself might be disabled in the Services control panel.
- Dependencies Not Running: Windows Firewall relies on other services (like Base Filtering Engine) to function. If these dependencies are stopped or disabled, the firewall will fail to start.
- Corrupted System Files: Damaged or corrupted system files might prevent the Windows Firewall service from starting correctly.
- Third-Party Software Conflicts: Antivirus programs or other security software might interfere with the Windows Firewall service.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Start the Windows Firewall Service and its Dependencies Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Press Windows Key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
Step 2: In the Services window, locate the Windows Firewall service.
Step 3: Right-click on Windows Firewall and select Properties.
Step 4: In the Properties window, go to the General tab.
Step 5: Set the Startup type to Automatic.
Step 6: If the service status is Stopped, click the Start button.
Step 7: Click Apply and then OK.
Step 8: Repeat these steps for the Base Filtering Engine service. Ensure it is set to Automatic and Running.
Step 9: Restart your computer.
Method 2: Run the System File Checker (SFC) Scan Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as administrator. Search for 'cmd', right-click and select 'Run as administrator'.
Step 2: Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
Step 3: Wait for the scan to complete. This may take some time.
Step 4: If any errors are found, the System File Checker will attempt to repair them. Follow any on-screen prompts.
Step 5: Restart your computer.
Method 3: Run the DISM Tool Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as administrator.
Step 2: Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Step 3: Wait for each command to complete. This process can take a while.
Step 4: Restart your computer.
Method 4: Check for Conflicting Software Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus or firewall software.
Step 2: Try starting the Windows Firewall service again (as described in Method 1).
Step 3: If the firewall starts successfully after disabling the third party software, either configure the conflicting software to allow Windows Firewall or uninstall the software entirely.
Step 4: Remember to re-enable your desired firewall protection.