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I can't open my COM port for my Ethernet to Serial device, what do I do?

This FAQ explains which anti-virus programs may inhibit usage of your Brainbox device and which you may have to add exceptions for.

MacAfee Total Protection 

  • Start up Boost.LAN and when you scan for devices it prompts you to add an exception.
  • When you start up your terminal application you are prompted to add an exception.

Trend Micro Total Internet Protection

  • Start up Boost.LAN and when you scan for devices it prompts you to add an exception.
  • You must disable Protection Against Web Threats as you cannot add an exception for this.

Kaspersky Internet Security 2010

  • No exceptions need to be added for Boost.LAN

  • When you first run your terminal application it will not open the COM port.

  • You must add the terminal application program to the trusted applications list.

  • You must also add the terminal application manually to threats and exclusions:

    Settings > Options > Exclusions > Settings > Trusted Apps > Add > Applications > Your Terminal App > Tick all 4 boxes > apply

Zonealarm Free

  • When you first search for devices you will be asked to add exceptions.
  • You will need to add a subnet / IP Address exception to the firewall to use your terminal application.

Norton Security

  • No exceptions need to be added for Boost.LAN.
  • May try to remove terminal application, when SONAR removes application you will need to restore it and exclude the file from future scans.
  • To run the terminal application and to open the COM port you may need to add your terminal application to program control and allow access.