I use Windows 7 Ultimate x64 and I can't seem to get my firewall settings to temproarily block all incoming traffic when I desire even thought set it to do so. Am I correct in expecting the firewall to block all (everything) when desired?

Make sure you set the proper settings for your profiles. Domain, Private, and Public Profiles are all settings you need to set. If you do not set the appropriate profile to your network profile, then your settings will not be applied properly. Ensure that Inbound and outbound connections are "Blocked". Currently, Inbound are always blocked and Outbound are always allowed by default. If you want to block everything, make sure they are both set to block. To do this, follow these steps: The long way: Click the Start Orb. Point to Computer. Towards the top, click "Open Control Panel" Click on "System and Security" Click Windows Firewall. Click Advanced settings on the side bar. The Windows Firewall with Advanced Security box will open. The summary of settings you have will be displayed. Click "Windows Firewall Properties" located under your profiles. Adjust your settings. The short way: Click the start orb, enter the following: %windir%\system32\WF.msc The summary of settings you have will be displayed. Click "Windows Firewall Properties" located under your profiles. Adjust your settings.