Caught my Windows apps phoning home with this free open-source firewall

A reviewer says the free, open-source firewall Portmaster revealed unexpected outbound connections from apps on a Windows PC. After moving beyond the built-in Windows Firewall—described as effective for blocking inbound threats but limited for controlling app behavior—the writer installed Portmaster to track when programs connect to the internet. They report that within minutes, the list of connected apps grew sharply, including software they believed was idle or even off. Portmaster provides per-app profiles, a network monitor with domains and IP locations, and the ability to block specific apps or domains, with “prompt” permissions as an added safeguard. The piece distinguishes a free tier from a paid Plus plan for longer history and privacy-focused features.