Resolving “Client blocked by firewall“ Error in SSW Desktop Client

When running the Secure Workspace (SSW) desktop client, users may encounter the error message:

"Client blocked by firewall"

This typically indicates that the SSW process is being prevented from connecting to the network by the system firewall. Follow the steps below based on your operating system to resolve this issue.

Windows

Steps:

1. Open Windows Security.

2. Navigate to Firewall & network protection.

3. Click Allow an app through firewall.

4. Click Change settings (you may need administrator permission).

5. Click Allow another app… and then Browse.

6. Add the following executable:

   C:\Program Files\resources\release\app\sdpc.exe
   

   or, if you're using a 32-bit system or the app is installed in the (x86) path:

   C:\Program Files (x86)\resources\release\app\sdpc.exe
   

7. If Secure Workspace is not installed in the default path, you can locate the correct directory by:

   • Right-clicking the Secure Workspace desktop shortcut
   • Selecting Properties
   • Checking the Target field to find the actual installation path

8. Ensure both Private and Public checkboxes are selected.

9. Click Add, then OK.

macOS

Steps:

1. Open System Settings > Network > Firewall.

2. If the firewall is enabled, click Options….

3. Click the “+” button to add a new application.

4. Navigate to:

   /Applications/Secure Workspace.app/Contents/Resources/release/app/sdpc
   

5. Add it, then confirm access as Allow incoming connections.

Linux

Default installation path:

/opt/SecureWorkspace/resources/release/app/sdpc

Ensure this binary has outbound network access via your firewall rules.

Important:

In some environments, firewall settings may be managed by third-party antivirus software (e.g., McAfee, Symantec, CrowdStrike). In this case:

• You may not see the option to add apps to the firewall.
• Please contact your IT administrator to allow the sdpc.exe process through the firewall.

Still Seeing the Error?

If the issue persists:

1. Update your SSW Desktop client to the latest version.
2. Run the client in debug mode to collect more diagnostic information.

Windows

"C:\Program Files\Secure Workspace\Secure Workspace.exe" --sswdebug

macOS

/Applications/Secure\ Workspace.app/Contents/MacOS/Secure\ Workspace --sswdebug

Linux

/opt/SecureWorkspace/SecureWorkspace --sswdebug

After launching in debug mode, note any console output or error logs and share them with support if further assistance is needed.