Some features of X-Plane require that X-Plane be able to communicate across your network. These features include:
- networked multiplayer flights,
- multi-computer simulations,
- integration with apps on your phone or tablet.
In order for your computer to “see” the other computers in the situations above, you must first allow X-Plane to communicate through your firewall. If your computer is not running a firewall, of course, this is of no concern to you.
Windows
In Windows 10, if Windows Defender Firewall comes up automatically, you can allow X-Plane through the firewall in that popup. Otherwise, to allow X-Plane through the firewall manually,
- Open Windows Security.
- Click on Firewall & network protection.
- Click the Allow an app through firewall option.
- Click the Change settings button.
- Check the X-Plane app. If the app isn’t on the list, click the Allow another app button to locate it.
- Check which type of networks the app can use to access the network.
- Click the OK button.
In Windows Vista and Windows 7,
- Open Windows Firewall by clicking the Start button, clicking Control Panel, clicking Security, and then clicking Windows Firewall.
- In the left pane, click Allow a program through Windows Firewall. If you are prompted for confirmation, click Allow.
- (Windows 7 only:) Click Change settings, then click Allow if asked for confirmation.
- Select the check box next to X-Plane, and then click OK.
To allow a program through the firewall in Windows XP, follow Microsoft’s instructions in Knowledge Base Article 842242.
MacOS
To allow X-Plane through the firewall in Mac OS,
- Open System Preferences from the Apple menu.
- Click Security & Privacy.
- Click the Firewall tab.
- Unlock the pane by clicking the lock in the lower-left corner and enter the administrator username and password.
- Click Firewall Options… to customize the firewall configuration.
- Click the + (plus) button, then navigate to your copy of X-Plane.app. With X-Plane selected, click Add.
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