why is mac firewall off by default?

11.3: web.addn/mac/why mac firewall off by default?:

. wonder why the firewire was off?

the next article reminds me that I used to know

my router has a hardware-based firewall built-in,

and if there is any problems with the likes of skype,

just turn off the computer's firewall and leave that job to your router .

Damien Gallop 2003:

For even better security,

particularly at home on a broadband connection such as cable or DSL internet,

get a combo NAT gateway for yourself. Next to a VCR,

these little "black boxes" are the technology bargain of the decade.

Installing one between your home computer or network

and your broadband modem will give you a two-tiered level of firewalling.

configure it!:

We suggest that you select the Enable Stealth Mode check box.

It doesn't have many side-effects,

unless you want people to be able to perform stealth scans of your Mac.