My Mac Mini is connected to my router both directly through a network cable and by Wi-Fi. I'm considering turning off the Wi-Fi because it provides another point of entry for hackers. If I understand correctly, Wi-Fi is needed to obtain my location for the map application. Are there any other benefits or does the inherent risk outweigh any advantages?
Thanks.
Mac mini, OS X El Capitan (10.11.6)
Ethernet is usually faster than wifi.
Yes, wifi is required to locate the computer.. However, once you used wifi the Mac should remember its location.
Like you said, wifi is a possible door to open. However, it has more to do with the network rather than individual computers. If you only turn off wifi on the Mac and leave wifi on on your router that is little if any improvement
OS X really require someone sitting at your computer to hack it with an admin password you provided. past that it's not as simple as they see your wi-fi and hack you. Wi-fi does not obtain your location automatically, my location from my provider is West Cost, my desk is on the east cost, so Google thinks I'm in Portland OR and I'm 3000mi away.
If you use find your mac on the mini it will work over ethernet.
enable the firewall and keep your router patched from the manufacturers same make and model. This is done from ther router interface, and don't bother with firewall your mac unless this is a public access point, and you take your Mini with you wherever you go.
ethernet is generally faster, and less likely to lose signal due to interference. If you have the option to use it it's preferable to wi-fi
Thanks for your quick reply Illaass—helpful as always. I'll be interested to see if my Mac remembers where it lives!
Benefit of connecting desktop using Wi-Fi?
