Do you want the application "mDNSResponder" to accept incoming network connections?

[Rivergull]

I'm a senior citizen and not sure what to do. My iMac (OS-X) was really slow, so I clicked RESTART. After it restarted, two popups appeared.

First popup said I needed to update my clock, saying it was set for 2008...but when I went into System Preferences, the date was current.
Second popup said, Do you want the application "mDNSResponder" to accept incoming network connections? Totally do not know what to do with this! Should I click "Allow" ??

HELP!

 

[Slydude]

It's safe to allow that process. It is a networking protocol developed by Apple for zero/near zero configuration of network devices such as networkable printers. Ir's used to make things like printers easier to set up over a network. See here for more info.

Thread moved to the networking area as it seemed like the most appropriate place.

 

[Rivergull]

So I should click "Allow" and not worry that someone is trying to access my computer? I recently had a Ransomware attack that I was able to ditch somehow, and I've never received this mDNSR popup before.

 

[Slydude]

Did you recently turn on the firewall software built into OS X? That's one thing that would cause this message to suddenly start appearing. It should be OK to allow that connection but of you choose not to about the worst that should happen is that whatever device needs it won't be fully operational until it is turned on.

 

[Rivergull]

Did you recently turn on the firewall software built into OS X? That's one thing that would cause this message to suddenly start appearing. It should be OK to allow that connection but of you choose not to about the worst that should happen is that whatever device needs it won't be fully operational until it is turned on.

I never messed with the Firewall setting. Just now checked System Preferences/Security and the Firewall is "ON". That's the correct setting, right? As for the popup,
I guess I'll click "Allow" and see what happens. ;o)

 

[Slydude]

Some of our member have the firewall off and others have it on. If your iMac is connected to a router the router will usually have a firewall built in. If you leave it on other network dialogs may appear from time to time depending upon what software is running.

 

[Rivergull]

Some of our member have the firewall off and others have it on. If your iMac is connected to a router the router will usually have a firewall built in. If you leave it on other network dialogs may appear from time to time depending upon what software is running.

My iMac desktop uses OS-X 10.6.8 and 'no' I don't own a router. Only device connected to my iMac is my printer. I would think therefore that the Firewall should remain "ON." I checked the link regarding Bonjour and what caught my eye was: "...enables automatic discovery of computers, ...." I'm not a techie, so I just hope that by clicking "Allow" I won't be 'allowing' others to 'discover' my computer via some sort of network out there. As I said, I'm not a techie, so my concerns are likely pretty silly, right?

 

[harryb2448]

How do you connect to the 'net? A router is also in some instance a modem.

 

[Rivergull]

How do you connect to the 'net? A router is also in some instance a modem.

Oh! Yes, I have a modem...it's rather old. Everything seems to be functioning despite my non-response to the popup. Just wish I could close it to get it off my screen, but it doesn't offer that option. Wants me to answer "Deny" or "Allow".

 

[Slydude]

My iMac desktop uses OS-X 10.6.8 and 'no' I don't own a router. Only device connected to my iMac is my printer. I would think therefore that the Firewall should remain "ON." I checked the link regarding Bonjour and what caught my eye was: "...enables automatic discovery of computers, ...." I'm not a techie, so I just hope that by clicking "Allow" I won't be 'allowing' others to 'discover' my computer via some sort of network out there. As I said, I'm not a techie, so my concerns are likely pretty silly, right?

I think that in order for automatic discovery to work the device has to be connected to your network (either wired or wirelessly if your network is set up for wireless access). I'm still looking for a reference to confirm that. Perhaps one of our network gurus can confirm my thinking.

 

[Rivergull]

I think that in order for automatic discovery to work the device has to be connected to your network (either wired or wirelessly if your network is set up for wireless access). I'm still looking for a reference to confirm that. Perhaps one of our network gurus can confirm my thinking.

Thanks for helping me, Slydude. I'm just an in-home user and not part of any network...at least not that I know of, anyway. I have Bluetooth turned ON as I use a wireless mouse; and Airport is OFF, if that is of any help?

 

[chscag]

As long as you have your firewall turned on, you're going to get that pop up notice about "mDNSResponder". I suspect your modem has a built in router and ethernet connector since you have wireless turned off (Airport off). Check with the make and model of your modem and see if it has NAT protection. Unless it's a very old modem it should have NAT protection and if so, you can turn your firewall off as it's not needed.

 

[pm-r]

I didn't notice anything about fixing the "update my clock" notice, but I'd take a guess that that Mac's PRAM battery may be dead and should be replaced.

It can be checked by opening the Date & Time System Preferences and make sure the time is exactly correct and then disabling any "set time automatically" option and then Shutdown the Mac and disconnect its power cord connection and wait at least a few minutes.

Then hookup and connect the power cable, boot up and check the time. If it's not exact, the PRAM battery is dead and should be replaced. It won't necessarily die or explode, just better to keep the Mac running properly.




- Patrick
======

 

[chscag]

I didn't notice anything about fixing the "update my clock" notice, but I'd take a guess that that Mac's PRAM battery may be dead and should be replaced.

He never said which model and year his iMac is, but I was surprised to read that even late model 27" iMac models still use a PRAM battery although it's a different type than that used in older models and supposedly will last the life of the iMac. Now the question is.... how long is the life of an iMac?

 

[pm-r]

Good question and I missed any info and how you even knew what year and Mac type the OP is using… I just mentioned the clock message as it's pretty unusual to get that one these days, especially with just doing a restart…

PS: I'm even using a late model 27" iMac and I sure didn't know it had any PRAM, at least as I'd know one or where on earth it hides…

EDIT:

Hmmm… a quick search and I get this… close, and interesting I guess and maybe close enough.