Chapter 12. Accounts and Security

In an era where security is a high-tech buzzword , Apple was smart to make security a focal point for Mac OS X. The built-in security features in Mac OS X can protect you from hacker attacks; erase your hard drive so no one can ever recover your private information; and clean up the digital tracks you leave as you browse the Web. You'll be grateful for Mac OS X's protection when you hear horror stories about security breaches from your Windows-using friendsor on the evening news.

Another important component of Mac OS X's security scheme involves accounts , which let each person who uses your Mac keep his information private. In combination, therefore, Mac OS X's protections keep your data safe from nosy co-workers and from malevolent hackers.

This chapter covers Mac OS X's security features in all their various incarnations.