Filevault

Nah, don't bother with Filevault. Most average people don't need it, although the option is nice to have available for those who really do need it, or for the paranoid...


And yes, it slows down your computer. I've also read that it's somewhat flawed, although I don't know what these flaws are, specifically. I've had it turned on for a week last July, but eventually I just didn't bother.

 

Filevault is mostly to keep someone from accessing your data if they steal your computer.

 

i tried it when it first came out. it was useless. my computer crashed as often as a windows machine. apple quickly sent out a repair for that. it wasnt as bad, but still kinda flakey. i know it has been fixed, for the most part, but if you are ever going to move around big files, such as music files or photos, then it likely isnt worth it for you. unless you totally need extra security.

 

I use it when I'm transporting my laptop, most notably on holiday etc.

All other times I have it turned off as it does noticeably slow your machine down.