Enabling a Firewall in macOS

A firewall is a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Faculty, students, and staff can set up a firewall for Mac computers.

Setting Up a Firewall in macOS

1. Navigate to System Settings. 

2. Click on Network. 

3. Select the Firewall tab. 

4. Click the lock icon to make changes, and type in credentials. 

5. Select Turn on Firewall.

Allowing Application Connections 

1. In the Firewall tab, click on the lock icon in the Firewall tab in order to make changes. 

2. Click Firewall Options... 

3. Click on the + (plus) sign to select an application to get access through the firewall.  

4. Click Add. The application should now show up in the Firewall Options window.

5. From here, you can select whether you want to either:

   • Block incoming connections to prevent it from getting a connection with a firewall. 

   • Allow incoming connections so the firewall does not affect the application’s connections.

6. Click OK to save the changes and return to the Firewall tab. 

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