Windows Security

When running Windows on a Mac via a virtual machine, is the computer less secure? For example, say I am running internet explorer on windows, does it bypass the Apple Firewall and make my machine vulnerable? Or is it just as secure as doing stuff with my Mac?

When running Windows on your Mac, whether it be via a virtual machine or a dedicated Boot Camp partition, you are susceptible to all the security vulnerabilities that exist for Windows. However, the good news is that your OS X partition is isolated from any of those vulnerabilities.

Always protect Windows with a good firewall, AV software, and anti malware. Some good freeware suggestions are: Komodo Firewall, AVG or Avira PE, and Malwarebytes. There are others also. And, instead of using IE, use Firefox.

Regards.