Bitdefender Firewall

ncage2

Is bitdefender firewall just pretty much a front end to the windows firewall service? So maybe bitdefender will create rules & what not but in the end its still using the windows firewall service? Why am i asking? Well i'm interesting in using some products that in the end just work by adding rules to the windows firewall. Maybe if bitdefener is using the windows firewall they will still work but if it is its own thing then they won't.
For example crowdsec works by creating its rules in the windows firewall. So if bitdefender firewall is its own thing then crowdsec probably won't work otherwise it might. I've had bitdefender work great.
I'd prefer just not to turn bitdefender firewall off because its probably saved my rear. I've had some brute force attacks blocked by the 'online threat protection' component but in the end my guess is they are either creating a rule in windows firewall for the specific attacking IP or their own firewall.

I did notice the "windows defender firewall" so i'm guessing/hoping bitdefender just uses that service to create rules.

Flexx

https://community.bitdefender.com/en/discussion/100818/bitdefender-firewall

Bitdefender Firewall is not simply an extension of the Windows Firewall service; rather, it functions as a distinct firewall solution that operates alongside Windows Defender Firewall. While Bitdefender Firewall does interact with Windows Defender Firewall by creating rules and configurations, it utilizes its own proprietary technology and filtering mechanisms.

Bitdefender Firewall utilizes:

1) Windows Filtering Platform (WFP): This set of APIs enables third-party firewalls like Bitdefender to communicate with the Windows networking stack and filter network traffic.

More information regarding the Windows Filtering Platform (WFP) and the Base Filtering Engine Service (BFE) can be found in the link provided below. You will need to read the entire article to fully understand it.

https://www.bitdefender.com/consumer/support/answer/2818/

2) Proprietary filtering drivers: These drivers allow Bitdefender to inspect and block network traffic at a deeper level, offering additional security measures beyond those provided by Windows Defender Firewall.

Regarding compatibility with products that modify Windows Firewall rules, it's possible that they may not integrate seamlessly with Bitdefender Firewall. Since Bitdefender employs its own filtering mechanisms, it may not recognize or adhere to rules created by other products designed for Windows Defender Firewall.

Specifically, Crowdsec may not function optimally with Bitdefender Firewall, as it is primarily tailored to interact with Windows Defender Firewall. However, you can attempt to configure Crowdsec to work alongside Bitdefender Firewall or consult Bitdefender support for advice on compatibility issues.

It's encouraging to hear that Bitdefender has effectively protected your system from brute force attacks! If compatibility concerns persist, you might consider testing Crowdsec in a controlled environment or exploring alternative solutions specifically designed to complement Bitdefender Firewall.

Regards