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    Mac Guides
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    1 min read 4 stepsFebruary 6, 2026Verified February 2026

    How to Configure Firewall Settings on Mac

    Protect your Mac from unauthorized network access with the built-in firewall.

    At a Glance

    Category
    Mac Guides
    Difficulty
    Advanced
    Read Time
    1 min read
    Steps
    4
    Topics covered
    advanced
    mac
    firewall
    security
    network

    In this guide (4 steps):

    1. 1.Open Firewall settings
    2. 2.Turn on the Firewall
    3. 3.Configure options
    4. 4.Enable stealth mode
    1

    Open Firewall settings

    ~15s
    Go to System SettingsNetworkFirewall.
    2

    Turn on the Firewall

    ~15s
    Click the toggle to enable the firewall. It's off by default on Mac.

    Quick Tip

    The Mac firewall is off by default, unlike Windows. Turning it on is one of the easiest security improvements you can make.

    3

    Configure options

    ~15s
    Click "Options" to manage which apps are allowed to receive incoming connections.
    4

    Enable stealth mode

    ~15s
    In Options, enable "Enable stealth mode" to make your Mac invisible on public networks.

    Warning

    Stealth mode makes your Mac invisible on public networks, which is great for security. Only disable it if a specific app stops working.

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    advanced
    mac
    firewall
    security
    network

    Official Resources

    Apple SupportHow-To Geek — MacApple Support YouTube

    Sources used to create and verify this guide. View all sources →

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