What is a firewall? Why do I need one for my computer?

A firewall is a protective barrier that prevents unwanted sources such as viruses, worms, trojans and other malicious code from accessing your computer or network. Firewalls can be either hardware-based or software-based. These two types of solutions can also be used in conjunction with one another.

C&IT highly recommends that you use a firewall. Newer operating systems (such as Windows 8.1, 10) and Mac OS X 10.4 and above) have software-based firewalls built-in. To configure these built-in firewalls, click the provided links below.

Windows 8.1, 10

• Turn Microsoft Defender on or off.
  
  

Mac

• macOS: Use a firewall to prevent unwanted connections on Mac

If you have difficulties turning on your firewall or have a system not listed

above, please contact the C&IT Help Desk.