The Windows Firewall is one thing and Cortana is another. However, they both reside in Windows 10, so… you either trust Microsoft or you don’t no matter what 3rd-party software you use. Even with HIPS security software Microsoft will be able to transmit data, if so they wish.

Ok, thanks for the reply. I’ll have to do it with that then. :)

Like a dedicated feature? not exactly, but the cumulative protections of Emsisoft Anti-Malware (behavior blocker + dual-engine) will prevent keyloggers to compromise your banking session.

Microsoft spies me? Do you think they can tell me something about myself and my cyber habits that I do not already know? Will they label me as an Emsisoft fan and relegate me to good protection from EAM with Windows Firewall Fortification?

Why do you believe extension for Windows Firewall = Stand alone firewall?

If people wanted the windows firewall they would not be using a better 3rd party application, something you seem to have forgotten when you decided to kill OA and ripped it out of EIS

I prefer Sphinx version, it uses 0% CPU and works, unlike binisoft.
Glasswire has an awesome GUI, but takes about 3% CPU nonstop.

a, congrats, you are unique, btw, using a public IP is actually the worst idea from the security point (most people have to pay for it extra)
b, they can use any other 3rd party firewall, but most of them have died out for the same reason, they are useless, they do not offer anything extra, but a different GUI. I really liked PrivateFirewall and Outpost.
c, it should not cause conflicts, unless it is a rubbish software or a combo like anti-malware with a firewall, which can interfere, even if its other modules are disabled, thus solo products are the best
d, Windows users are not Emsisoft users, besides most people like it, if they would get a lot of negative feedback, they would reconsider it, but thus far, there are only a few lonely rangers out there, who do not like it

I tried binisoft “paid” version for a while before reverting only to Windows Firewall, it is quite good , played nice with EAM and will satisfy those needing outbound control. (note that the free version wont give outbound alerts)