Advanced Step 4: Disable Network Services

Mac OS X supports using your Mac as a network server for services such as: Apple file sharing, Windows file sharing, remote login, web content, printer sharing, FTP, and a few others. When these services are enabled, malicious attackers may try to exploit security vulnerabilities or weak passwords to gain unauthorized access to your personal files or take control of your Mac.

Note: As with any network computer, you should ONLY enable network services that
you absolutely need and then disable them as soon as you are done using them.

To disable network services:

1. From the Apple menu, select System Preferences and click Sharing.
2. Click the lock icon to make changes.
3. If prompted, enter the admin userid and password.
4. In the Sharing window, select the Services tab.
5. Choose the service you want to disable and click Stop.
   
6. Click the lock icon to prevent further changes and close the Sharing window.

Note: Avoid using Personal File Sharing because it does NOT encrypt passwords and
may allow your local account passwords to be stolen.

Last Updated:  01/24/07