How to configure the FIREWALL so I can get out

[newlythere]

When I activated the firewall I had a choice between automatic and default. I chose default (which means all ports are closed), and the instructions said Custom would let me open the necessary ports. But then it never gave me the option to customize. The other option, "automatic" also apparently closed every port.

By the way, how come this forum can be accessed even when all ports closed? (Not that I'm complaining, mind you! )

[bigpup]

What specific Puppy version?
What firewall version? (firewall setup window shows this)

By the way, how come this forum can be accessed even when all ports closed?

The default firewall setup allows normal browser activity.
Uses packet filtering.

Packet filtering is a firewall technique used to control network access by monitoring outgoing and incoming packets and allowing them to pass or halt based on them matching the established rule set.

A closed port is closed to outside access.
Some (outside of your computer) device/program trying to access at that port.
When you start a browser it uses usually port 80 to access the Internet.
That is your side of the port doing that, so the port is open to you.

If you want to see how the firewall blocks outside attempts to access your computer.
Use this:
Shields Up
https://www.grc.com/x/ne.dll?bh0bkyd2
Select common ports test.