Firewally: Free Mac tool reveals and blocks secretive app internet access

Firewally is a free macOS app available in the Apple App Store that puts you in total control of which applications can access the internet. Once installed, it lives in the menu bar and displays a real-time log of network traffic per app over the past hour. You can change the default firewall policy from "Pass" (allow all new apps) to "Ask" (prompt for permission) or "Deny" (block all new apps) — a simple toggle that significantly tightens security without requiring networking knowledge. Additionally, you can individually enable or disable internet access for any running app with a single click.

Beyond basic firewall controls, Firewally offers AI-generated summaries for each app, explaining why it might need internet access. For example, the locally-run AI tool Ollama only needs network access to download or update LLMs; otherwise it can remain offline. By disabling internet access for apps that don't need it, you reduce data leakage, prevent unwanted telemetry, and maintain privacy. The app is designed for users who want to be proactive about macOS security but find traditional firewalls too complex. It also supports startup-on-boot and integrates seamlessly with macOS.