Firewall problem ?

Just noticed that my firewall is off. I think its been off since i got my macbook, is this bad?

or is it not necessary ?

its just that i got told that having the firewall off can potentionally increase download speeds, i dont know if this is true or not though haha

Thanks

The firewall is off by default on Macs. The reason is that your router or router-modem provides a "NAT" hardware firewall by design. There is no danger operating that way as long as you're behind a router or router-modem. You may want to turn on the firewall when using your MacBook from someplace like a public library, Starbucks, Panera, etc. In any event, it does no harm by turning it on as it will not slow you down.