Mac OS X 10.6.x: Google Images, Maps Won't Load in Safari, Firefox; Fix

Some users have reported an issue in which Google Maps and Images (image search results) do not appear in Safari under Mac OS X 10.6.x (Snow Leopard). These items generally load in earlier versions of Mac OS X, and in Windows on machines connected to the same wireless router.

As described by Apple Discussions poster DaMob:

“Whenever I want to search for images via google, they won’t load or only a few show up
I tried Firefox also, but the same problem. I even tried a different modem and connected the laptop via the ethernet port, but wouldn’t make a difference.When I do the same on Windows via Bootcamp or Parallels, this problem doesn’t occur, so it’s either a problem with Snow Leopard or Safari/Firefox for Mac, anyone knows how to fix it?”

Fix

It appears that, in most cases, this issue is due to a router security configuration problem. To solve it, follow these steps:

Access your router’s configuration page; find this in your ISP provider info
Check your router’s manual or manufacturer web page for any login/password info. Generally you can leave the password blank if you haven’t changed this setting on your router.
Turn off “SPI and Anti-DoS firewall protection” then restart your router and check for persistence of the problem
Failing the above, turn off your router’s firewall altogether, or change the firewall security setting from “high” to “medium”

SK( Managing Editor )

Obsessed with tech since the early arrival of A/UX on Apple, Sudz (SK) is responsible for the editorial direction of AppleToolBox. He is based out of Los Angeles, CA.

Sudz specializes in covering all things macOS, having reviewed dozens of OS X and macOS developments over the years.

In a former life, Sudz worked helping Fortune 100 companies with their technology and business transformation aspirations.