Although it’s always been thought of as an absolute necessity for users on the Windows operating system, it’s not too tough anymore to make the point that security software is now a must for Mac users as well. The threat from viruses and malware will continue to increase as Macs become more popular and thus a more attractive target to hackers.
Apart from antivirus software, though, one of the most important security measures for Mac owners to have is and always has been a reliable firewall. The security updates issued by Apple regularly cite network vulnerabilities, and this plainly shows that this is one of the weakest areas for Macs out of the box. The simple fact is that, without adequate firewall protection, the possibility exists that hackers can probe and even invade and commandeer your computer.
There are a few common options in terms of competent firewalls for Mac users. Between Mac OS X’s built-in firewall, freeware options, and powerful commercial firewalls and security programs, you’re certain to find something that meets your needs, so there’s really no reason to hold off on obtaining and activating a firewall. After all, this is one of the most important steps you can take towards completely securing your Mac.
IPsec
Versions of Mac OS X from Tiger and upward include a built-in firewall, called IPsec. IPsec is fairly good in terms of functionality, but it can be difficult to use effectively, especially for casual users. There are some front-end clients available for the IPsec firewall, which can unlock some of its usefulness in a more user-friendly fashion. One of the most popular of these is IPSecuritas, which is a freeware program.
Little Snitch
Little Snitch is one of the most popular anti-spyware programs on the Mac platform. Noted for its ease of use and efficient performance, Little Snitch doesn’t have all the functionality of a complete two-way firewall. Instead, it simply monitors outgoing transmissions from your computer. So, when something on your machine tries to report out without you knowledge, you will know about it, and you can prevent it from sending out its message. This, in turn, means that spyware is rendered ineffective, as it can’t get your personal information to its intended recipient.
Antivirus and Security Suites
Some of the most popular commercial security programs for Mac include firewalls, and these are often among the best firewalls in terms of overall functionality.
Intego’s VirusBarrier X6 and Intego’s full Internet Security Barrier X6 suite include the Netbarrier firewall, which gives you additional options in terms of what can and can’t connect to your computer. NetBarrier is one of the best & easiest Mac firewalls to use effectively; even relative newcomers to internet security will have a fairly easy time understanding the workings of the program and how to configure it to suit their purposes.
Norton Internet Security for Mac also includes a firewall, and this is perhaps the best available security program for Mac in terms of unobtrusive yet effective performance.
Related posts:
- MacScan vs VirusBarrier x6: Mac Security Software Comparison
- Internet Security Barrier X6 Review: Complete Mac Security
- iAntiVirus vs. Norton Internet Security: Mac Antivirus Software Comparison
