Mac Integration Basics v10.7 - Apple

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Security
OS X Lion offers strong, easy-to-use tools for all key aspects of network and computer
security. It’s important to maintain security at every level by protecting your user data,
protecting your Mac system, and securing your network. Security is a complex topic
and this is not a comprehensive guide, so please consult the additional resources at
the end of the section for more information.
In this chapter you’ll secure your user data by choosing a strong password, configuring
your home folder permissions, and enabling FileVault. Next, you’ll protect your Mac
system by setting a firmware password and enabling antivirus software. Finally, you’ll
enable network security by configuring the OS X firewall and VPN access services.
User Account Security
Choosing a Password
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It’s important for everyone to create strong passwords in a corporate work
environment. A weak password can be compromised, allowing access to your Mac,
your files, and your personal email account, as well as sensitive company data. The
password you choose is very important for your computer’s security, as it will be used
to install software, set up accounts, access the keychain utility, and log onto your
computer.
The most secure passwords are created from a combination of random uppercase
letters, lowercase letters, special characters (such as $@!#) and numbers. For example,
L1quid$m0ke is a good password because it’s a long, easily remembered, uncommon
phrase with letters replaced by special characters and numbers.
Lion includes Password Assistant, an application that analyzes the complexity of a
password or generates a complex password for you. You can specify the length and
type of password you’d like it to generate.