[thelist] thinking of getting new mac

[Chris Johnston]

Chris W. Parker wrote:

> Hi.
> 
> I'm thinking about getting a new mac (G5) for the office and the one
> question that's come up so far that I haven't been able to answer is
> that of virus protection. I've read about McAfee Virex but I can't find
> any info for it on McAfee's website. Does it come free with OS X or is
> purchased separately or what?

Virus are fairly rare when it comes to Macs. Most virus writters target 
Windos machines not because everyone has them, but because they just so 
simple to write. As to whether Virex is included, I don't see it listed 
under the included software on the apple store website, so I would have 
to assume no.

In many ways though, just having a Mac is great protection.

> 
> Also does the Virtual PC software help OS X to better integrate in a
> Windows environment?

OS X 2.2 already integrates amazing well with a Windows environment. You 
don't need any additional software. OS X comes preloaded with Samba 
which allows you to share files between your mac and any windows machine 
on your network with the click of a few buttons. It is also very easy 
for your windows machines to access files located on your mac.

Printers are a different story though. They are a little harder to 
share, but even this can be dealt with with a little research. Although, 
a good network printer is definitely worth the price in a mixed environment.


-- 
Chris Johnston

chris at fuzzylizard.com
www.fuzzylizard.com