How to add the Game/Launcher to Firewall & Antivirus exceptions

Sometimes your firewall or antivirus may block the game or launcher from connecting properly. Adding it to the exceptions list tells your system it’s safe to run and connect online.
 

Add to Windows Firewall Exceptions 

1. Press Windows + S and type "Windows Defender Firewall", then select it. 
2. In the left-hand menu, click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall. 
3. Click Change settings (you may need administrator permissions). 
4. Click Allow another app... at the bottom. 
5. Browse to find your game’s .exe file (and/or launcher), select it, and click Add.*
6. Ensure both Private and Public boxes are checked next to your game. 
7. Click OK to save.
    

Add to Antivirus Exceptions (Microsoft Defender) 

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings. 
2. Go to Privacy & security → Windows Security → Virus & threat protection. 
3. Under Virus & threat protection settings, click Manage settings. 
4. Scroll down and click Add or remove exclusions under Exclusions. 
5. Click Add an exclusion → File / Folder. 
6. Navigate to your game’s install folder or .exe file, and add it.*

• The WindowsApps folder is hidden by default. To access it, open File Explorer → View → Show → Hidden items.
• In the WindowsApps folder, look for a subfolder starting with Microsoft.PowerWashSimulator followed by numbers and letters. That’s the game’s install folder.