URGENT: Windows Firewall needs optional taskbar icon!

Am running XP Pro SP2 with nearly all updates.

I always select 'On' in Windows Firewall. However WF manages to turn off any
time I install software on my computer. It's up to me to remember to check
again and correct this any time I add software.

There seems to be no exception to WF turning off without telling me.

WINDOWS FIREWALL NEEDS AN OPTIONAL TAKSBAR ICON, so I can be easily made
aware when my firewall status changes. This is normal in ZoneAlarm or
Norton's Internet Security.

IN ADDITION, I have a question: WHY DOES WINDOWS FIREWALL TURN OFF WHENEVER
I ADD SOFTWARE INSTEAD OF JUST ALLOWING EXCEPTIONS AS I'M PROMPTED AND ALLOW.

Either way, please make sure to add the option of an icon for lower right
taskbar, that remains green when WF is on and turns red when WF is disabled.

THANK YOU!