Little Snitch

Outbound firewall for macOS.

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Console’s review

· Reviewed by David Mytton

What we like

Shows everything that makes outbound connections. Allows you to control and review what is talking to who. Granular controls for allowing/denying by IP, hostname, process. Knows when binaries change so you can review rules. Can import regularly updating block lists e.g. known malware hosts. Has explainers for common programs so you know what they are.

Tradeoffs

Very noisy after you first install it - reveals how much is actually making outbound connections! Binary change alerts can be annoying if you’re developing code that compiles.

Is Little Snitch a fit?

Based on Console’s review published on 2024-08-22. Summary updated .

Who it’s for

Users who want to control outbound connections on macOS should consider Little Snitch

Why consider it

Little Snitch allows users to control and review what is talking to who with granular controls

Keep in mind

The tool can be very noisy after installation and binary change alerts can be annoying

Console is a free weekly newsletter with short reviews of developer tools, covering strengths and tradeoffs. This review reflects Console’s assessment at publication on 2024-08-22. Features and limitations may have changed since the review date. Read our selection criteria and learn about Console.

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