Firewall for Macintosh?

[gary]

A client has just has broadband installed and needs a firewall for their Mac laptop. Any recommendations?

Also, how can they find out the specs of the laptop (memory, processor etc)?

Thanks!

[Juvanescence]

Also, how can they find out the specs of the laptop (memory, processor etc)?

Thanks!

In the top left of the screen there should be a apple symbol, click that and click the option "about this mac". I hope that helps.

[gary]

Thanks Jonathan, I'll let them know.

Gary

[kyber]

Personally, I think that it is always better to use a hardware firewall rather than a software firewall.

For SOHO use, you would normally look to get a combined ADSL modem/router/firewall. Price arpnd £80. Such devices usually have a number of network ports on them to plug standard network cable into. For a little more money, you can get a unit with WAP (wireless access) allowing the Apple laptop to be used (with a corresponding WiFi card installed) anywhere in the house and possibly even out in the garden.

The router simply replaces the BT supplied USB connected "frog" ADSL modem and is generally much more reliable to use. Multiple computers can connect to the internet through the broadband link at the same time.

That aside, Macintosh OS X has a built in firewall anyway. Given that Macs are not targeted in the same was as Windows this may be enough.

This should help you:
http://www.firewallguide.com/macintosh.htm

Stuart

[kyber]

Oops, just realised how old this thread is. Not too busy in here.

Stuart

[gary]

Thanks for the suggestions - I'll pass them on.