Is the new MacBook Neo suitable for Python network testing?

I’m not really sure what you mean by Python network testing. Could you clarify that?

Honestly, you might want to consider getting a Linux machine instead. It's a great environment for coding and testing!

Avoiding malware really depends more on your online habits than the hardware itself. I’m not sure what your specific network testing entails with Python, but you can isolate your scripts in a Docker container to keep them separate from your main OS. The MacBook Neo should handle that fine, but remember, 8GB of RAM might feel limited if you're running heavy tasks. Just keep your coding responsible and manageable!

If you're looking for a budget-friendly offline option, you might find cheaper computers on eBay. The M1 MacBooks are pretty affordable and offer solid specs and build quality for the price. If you're set on a new one and want macOS, then the Neo is a solid choice right now. But don't overlook renting a VPS for around $5 a month if that fits your needs better!