The top security software for Mac: A comparison of the best antivirus options.

Intego’s popular software, VirusBarrier, is well-known among Mac users. It was one of the first virus scanners available for Macs. The company’s Mac Internet Security X9 suite is a combination of VirusBarrier and NetBarrier. These utilities work together to detect and eliminate malware threats, as well as identify potential intrusion attempts from external sources and unauthorized outgoing attempts from malicious programs. VirusBarrier’s purpose is evident, but NetBarrier is a unique feature that acts as a two-way firewall, which is not commonly found in security software at this price point. Together, these tools provide strong protection against both direct and indirect threats from unwanted software and malware.

VirusBarrier X9 is capable of scanning all files on any connected disk, even those within compressed archives. It also has the ability to scan emails and connected iOS devices. Any doubtful files will be isolated and can be either designated as trusted, kept in quarantine, or an attempt can be made to repair them.

In the AV-Comparatives test conducted in June 2023, Intego’s VirusBarrier was given a rating of “Approved” and displayed strong performance and improvement compared to previous years. According to AV-Comparitives, it successfully detected 99.4% of Mac malware, 97% of PUAs, and 100% of Windows viruses, making it a highly recommended choice. In the June 2023 AV-Test, it received a protection score of 5.5 out of 6, a performance score of 5 out of 6, and a perfect score for usability.

During our evaluation, Intego VirusBarrier successfully detected all forms of malware and unauthorized software, including those designed for other operating systems. Additionally, we received a warning when attempting to open a disk image containing a malicious installer.

The tool is highly compatible with macOS and, unlike its competitors, it has the appearance of a genuine Mac program.

The initial year for Intego’s Internet Security package is priced at $24.99/£20.00 when utilizing this link. Additionally, a complimentary VirusBarrier Scanner can be obtained through the Mac App Store.

For $39.99/£23.99 for the initial year, the Mac Premium Bundle X9 includes three additional capabilities: Personal Backup for backup support, Mac Washing Machine for cleaning and optimizing performance, and ContentBarrier for safe internet browsing for multiple users. While not essential for everyone, ContentBarrier is particularly useful for parents. Whichever suite you opt for, you can trust that it provides top-notch protection for your Mac.

You can obtain Intego Mac Internet Security X9 from this location.

Avast offers four different antivirus options for Mac users: Avast Premium Security, Avast One, Avast Free Antivirus, and Avast One Essential. For those looking for a simple virus scanner, we recommend Avast’s Free Antivirus, which is essentially the free version of Avast Premium Security. Avast One Essential, on the other hand, is the free version of Avast One and includes additional features such as ransomware protection, privacy protection, and the option to clean up your hard drive without prompting. It also includes a free VPN service with 5GB of data per week, though selecting a location in another country comes at an extra cost.

Avast Premium Security for Mac effectively safeguards your Mac from potential threats. This comprehensive suite includes features such as protection against browser script attacks, ransomware, and remote attacks. The suite offers multiple modules, including Virus Scans, Core Shields, Traffic Monitor, Network Inspector, Email Guardian, Ransomware Shield, and Quarantine, all conveniently accessible from the home screen.

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You can choose from various virus scan options such as Smart Scan, Deep Scan, Targeted Scan, or External Storage Scan. If any suspicious files are detected, you can easily isolate them or delete them. The Traffic Monitor displays your data usage and the destinations of your bandwidth. The Network Inspector checks the safety of your network and provides a list of connected devices. It also alerts you when a new device joins your network.

We conducted a trial of the Core Shields feature using a fabricated website that originated from an unexpected text message mentioning a failed delivery of a package. Avast’s Real Site function successfully blocked the site from loading and triggering any software.

The software was swiftly installed and performed effectively on macOS Sonoma. It can be frustrating to have to give the program complete access to the hard drive and permission to filter network content, but this is a typical requirement for antivirus software.

The primary source of dissatisfaction is the payment system based on subscriptions. However, this is becoming the norm in today’s market. Some exclusive features are only accessible with the Avast Ultimate subscription package.

If you want to save money or preview the options before making a purchase, you could consider using Avast’s two free Antivirus for Mac solutions. These solutions are still effective despite being free. In a June 2023 test by AV-Comparatives, Avast’s Free antivirus for Mac was one of the top performers, detecting 100% of Mac malware, 99% of potentially unwanted applications, and 100% of Windows viruses. Avast also received high marks in AV-Test’s June 2023 investigations, scoring perfectly in protection, performance, and usability.

During our use of the free version of Avast, we did not encounter any delays or hindered system performance. The primary hurdle we faced was the installation process. Since a virus scanner requires access to the file system in order to scan files, it must install background programs, which may require some extra steps on your end. It should be noted that this is not Avast’s fault.

Regarding the layout, we discovered that the three-column display of functions was quite disorganized and somewhat overwhelming. However, the most frustrating aspect was the excessive alerts about potential security vulnerabilities, as Avast One labeled our home wireless network as insecure and suggested using a VPN.

Reword: Avast Premium Security for Mac is available for download. You may also want to check out Avast One, Avast Free Antivirus, and Avast One Essential.

Please read our comprehensive review of Avast Free Antivirus and Avast One Essential for Mac.

AVG Antivirus for the Mac is one of a handful of free antivirus for Mac programs. As such it is basic, but it’s effective at protecting you from viruses, spyware, and malware.

AVG offers comprehensive coverage at no cost, protecting against viruses and malware on websites, downloads, and email attachments. It conducts regular scans of applications and files on your Mac to detect and eliminate any potential threats. Additionally, it automatically updates to ensure protection against the most recent dangers.

In the 2023 AV-Test, AVG received certification and was recognized as exceptional in terms of protection, performance, and usability. In the June 2023 AV-Comparatives tests, AVG Antivirus Free for Mac achieved a perfect score of 100% for Mac Malware Protection, 99% for Mac PUA Protection, and 100% for detecting Windows malware. These results exceeded those of certain paid antivirus options.

While it may not have all the bells and whistles of paid antivirus programs, this software efficiently performs essential tasks without any complications. Keep in mind, if you encounter more complex problems, you will have to upgrade to the full version for a cost of approximately $2/£2 per month with a one-year subscription. Fortunately, there is a 60-day trial available which may suffice for your needs.

Overall, this is an excellent choice, despite its simplicity. You receive more value than what you “pay” for.

AVG Antivirus for Mac is available for download here.

Norton 360 is a security tool designed to protect your Mac from various threats, including browser hacks, search engine hijack scripts, intrusion attempts, and malware. It performs various monitoring and safeguarding operations to keep your computer safe.

There are multiple choices available for Norton 360, including Plus, Standard, and Deluxe versions. The U.K. also has an Advanced edition and the U.S. has a Select + LifeLock edition, both of which can be used on up to 10 devices. The main protection features of Norton 360 are effective, but the Mac edition does not include cloud backup benefits. Upgrading to the Standard edition or higher includes additional features such as Dark Web Monitoring, Parental Control, and School Time, as well as licenses for up to five devices (Deluxe edition) or 10 (Advanced or Select versions).

Norton 360’s main priority is detecting and preventing unwanted software. In addition, it provides beneficial features such as a VPN to safeguard personal information while using the internet, and a tool for organizing passwords, bank card information, and similar data. Certain versions also include protection against identity theft with Norton’s Dark Web Monitoring service. This service routinely monitors if your email, phone number, credit card number, or other personal details have been compromised. It’s important to note that the Cloud Backup feature is not compatible with macOS, but it is considered an optional add-on rather than an essential aspect of the package.

Additionally, there is security in place to prevent the installation of harmful software without permission. The Norton Password Manager is a useful tool for organizing wallet information to enable autofill for payments, addresses, notes, and favorites. While many of these features are already available on macOS, the user-friendly interface makes it simple to navigate.

Please be aware that the initial year is offered at a discounted rate, and the subsequent years will be charged at a higher price. The current price range for the first year is between $19.99/£19.99 and $29.99/£29.99, with the renewal cost being higher, as is common with antivirus packages.

In evaluations, Norton demonstrated strong performance and effectively detected harmful and potentially dangerous software, ranging from scripts that hack browser search engines to trojan viruses. In a June 2023 assessment by AV-Test, the program received a protection score of 5.5 out of 6 for detecting Mac malware, as well as perfect scores for performance and usability.

Norton 360 is available for purchase here.

Bitdefender is a company that creates antivirus software for Mac computers. They have multiple options available, including a free version. These options include Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac, which provides basic protection for up to three Macs, Bitdefender Total Security, which offers protection for up to five devices (including macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android), and Bitdefender’s Virus Scanner for Mac, which is also free. We have examined all of these options.

Bitdefender Total Security is a reliable solution for safeguarding your Mac and providing protection for Windows PCs, iOS, and Android devices. The included VPN has limited features and only allows for 200MB of data usage per day, but the other tools in the suite are efficient and user-friendly.

However, when comparing the features of the Mac and Windows versions, you may feel disappointed. The Mac version lacks a password manager, social network protection, webcam and microphone protection, Wi-Fi security advisor, and many other features that are included in the Windows version at the same price. If your main concern is protecting your Mac from malware, Bitdefender is effective. However, there are other options that offer better value.

Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac is priced at $29.99/£24.98 for the initial year, with subsequent years costing $59.99/£39.99. This antivirus software effectively detects both Mac and Windows viruses, as shown by its 99.7% detection rate in AV Comparatives’ 2023 tests. It also received perfect scores for detecting Windows viruses and 98% for identifying potentially unwanted applications (PUAs). Additionally, Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac achieved top ratings in all categories during AV-Test’s June 2023 evaluations.

Additionally, it provides extra security measures such as a VPN, safeguard against identity theft, and protection against ransomware. However, these features may not be essential for the average home user.

The Bitdefender Virus Scanner for Mac is available for free and can be easily installed through the Mac App Store link provided. However, the free version requires manual activation. Once installed, it offers three types of scans – Quick Scan, Deep Scan, and custom location scan. These options allow for a quick overview of important files, a thorough scan of all files and archives on the drive, and the flexibility to scan specific folders or external volumes as needed.

Although Bitdefender Virus Scanner has the ability to discover, isolate, and remove malicious software, there were situations where the program was not able to completely remove infected files. Instead, it would place them in quarantine and we had to manually search for them because the “Reveal in Finder” feature was not functioning. Unfortunately, Bitdefender has discontinued the free Windows version of Virus Scanner, raising concerns about the future of the free Mac version.

Trend Micro Antivirus is a highly regarded program that offers excellent antivirus protection and a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate.

Those seeking additional functions will not be satisfied with this collection, but it provides effective security at a reasonable cost.

In June of 2023, AV-Test awarded Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac with perfect scores in protection, performance, and usability. According to their evaluations, AV-Comparatives also gave Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac a 100% rating for Mac malware protection, 99% for PUA protection, and 100% for Windows malware detection.

Our independent evaluations yielded comparable positive outcomes. When compared to the Objective See malware database, Trend Micro had no difficulty identifying the majority of threats. However, in a small number of instances, it did not detect all malicious software within a folder until a scan was performed.

If you’re seeking a straightforward and user-friendly option, Trend Micro is a great pick. While there may be alternatives with stronger protection, Trend Micro still offers solid security and fair pricing.

Similar to Avast, Avira offers both a paid and free version of their antivirus software. Avira Prime is a security tool specifically created to protect your Mac from potentially harmful programs, including basic scripts that can manipulate and redirect your browser searches, as well as more serious malware. On the other hand, Avira Free Security for Mac only allows for a quick scan of system files and vulnerable areas, or a full scan of the entire Mac for malware, without any additional features.

The Avira Prime interface displays all its features in one main window, including scans, app management, and cleanup. However, some features require a separate panel for a web-based console. During our testing, it successfully detected all compromised files and installers. It does not scan zip archives or disk images, but it immediately detects any items extracted from them.

The main highlight is that Avira Prime has minimal impact on our Mac’s overall performance, even when actively scanning for issues. We would not have noticed it unless we compared timings.

In the June 2023 evaluations conducted by AV-Comparatives, Avira Prime received high marks, including 99% for Mac Malware Protection, 99% for PUA protection, and 100% for Windows Malware detection. Avira was also included in AV-Test’s June 2023 tests, earning a protection score of 5.5 out of 6, as well as perfect scores for performance and usability.

Avira Free Security offers basic security features, but for more useful capabilities at a higher price, consider an annual subscription to Prime.

Avira Free Security for Mac appears to provide numerous features at no cost. However, the majority of these features actually require a paid subscription, resulting in limited overall usefulness of the product and bothersome sales tactics.

The app is available for free and offers the option to perform scans on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Alternatively, you can create a personalized scan. It also provides real-time protection against viruses, scanning any new files that are saved or downloaded. A fee is required for scanning a USB drive. Any identified malware will be isolated automatically. In our test, Avira proved to be efficient in detecting and preventing malware.

The basic edition of Avira offers a junk cleaner that can detect problems through a thorough scan. However, payment is required to remove anything beyond junk files.

The saying “you get what you pay for” applies to Avira Free Security. If you remove the features that require payment, you are left with only the antivirus, a restricted VPN, a password manager that only functions on Safari, and a tool for cleaning junk files.

You have the option to obtain Avira Prime at this location. Additionally, you may want to consider Avira Free Security for Mac.

Check out our comprehensive review of Avira Free Security for Mac.

The software McAfee Total Protection is constantly being improved and provides a comprehensive set of tools for virus and malware protection, identity security, VPN, and scheduling.

Using it is easy; after following the directed instructions to grant it permission to operate in the background, it becomes a task you can simply let it handle on its own.

The program has the capability to conduct a thorough examination of your computer’s hard drive and also search designated areas such as external drives. It also allows you to set up scheduled scan times. You have the ability to specify what actions Total Protection should take when it detects potentially harmful files, such as alerting you, isolating them, or deleting them. In our evaluations, it successfully identified and isolated two suspicious virus files that I was not aware of, proving its effectiveness.

Additional functionalities include an ID Protection tool that cross-checks your email address with existing information and password breaches, a firewall, and a Secure VPN feature that allows for easy establishment of a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

The McAfee Total Protection package allows for up to five devices to be connected to one account, making it simple to include the application on additional Macs, iPhones, iPads, and Android-based phones and tablets as necessary. It should be mentioned that the Windows version provides functionalities that are not available in the Mac app.

We observed occasional decreases in performance while it operated in the background, but for the most part, it was not disruptive in its functioning. Our only other complaint is the complexity of ending the trial.

You can obtain McAfee Total Protection at this location.

Eset Cyber Security Pro is a valuable security software that safeguards your Mac, Windows PC, Linux computer, and Android devices from unauthorized software actions, network breaches, search engine hijacking scripts, and other threats. However, it does not provide protection for iPhones.

Its comprehensive selection of preference controls allows it to stand out from its competitors, as it can fine-tune various aspects of its performance. Additionally, it is reasonably priced compared to other options.

While it may not have the least impact on background performance, it was usually minor and not particularly noticeable.

Not only does it offer live and requested surveillance, but it also supplies a beneficial firewall and specialized resources for detecting online dangers such as spyware. Additionally, it safeguards against phishing schemes that aim to deceive individuals into revealing personal information. Furthermore, it includes parental controls with three different user classifications and precise management over the types of websites each user is permitted to access.

BitMedic Pro Antivirus is a decent antivirus software, although it has some limitations that need to be addressed. It is also worth noting that it has not been updated since 2020.

The software, available for purchase at $10/£10 on the Mac App Store, offers a variety of useful tools such as an Antivirus Scan feature, Adware Cleaner feature, Result Log, Custom Scan feature, Browser Privacy feature, and System Settings feature. These tools allow you to schedule thorough scans, adjust system settings, and create a list of files to exclude from scanning.

The initial trials of the Antivirus Scan feature in BitMedic Pro Antivirus were successful in detecting multiple phishing emails. However, the application did crash twice during testing. Unfortunately, there was a limited amount of information provided about the infected files and their exact location even when the drop-down option was selected.

The addition of an Adware Cleaner feature is a pleasant addition, works effectively, and operates efficiently. The Browser Privacy feature serves as a convenient and efficient method for clearing your browsing history, automatic logins, bookmarks, removing all extensions, and resetting your browser preferences. However, this feature only allows for a complete removal and we would prefer the ability to selectively disable or delete individual extensions.

The price of $10/£10 without a subscription is quite attractive, however, there are some aspects that detract from its appeal.

Previously, Sophos provided a complimentary edition of its Home product which included antivirus and website security. However, in 2021, this version was terminated and now the only available choice for personal use is Sophos Home Premium.

You can take advantage of a 30-day free trial, but after that there is a cost of $44.99/£37.46 for the first year and $59.99/£49.95 for each additional year. The software can be installed on up to 10 Macs or PCs.

The setup process was unclear. At first, the software provides guidance, but then it halts and requires you to log into your Sophos Home dashboard to finish the setup (this step may not be obvious).

There is also not a Dock icon to open the program; instead, you can access the online dashboard through a menu bar icon. From the dashboard, you can manage five different types of protection.

• This software offers antivirus protection by continuously scanning local and network drives in real-time. You can also initiate a manual scan or set up a scheduled scan. Additionally, a quick scan can be easily started from the menu bar icon.

• Web protection
• Ransomware protection
• Privacy protection
• Malicious traffic detection
• Web filtering

In 2017, AV-Test conducted an assessment of security software for macOS and found Sophos Home to excel in protection, performance, and usability. However, there have been no recent evaluations of Sophos by AV-Test.

During our testing, we conducted the EICAR test to simulate a virus. Sophos was able to successfully detect and block the test without any issues. Additionally, the website filtering feature performed effectively.

Although Sophos Home Premium offers strong protection, its installation procedure and reliance on cloud-based features can be seen as disadvantages. It would benefit from a more straightforward setup and greater capability for local operations.

You can easily and swiftly install ClamXAV from their official website. Simply click on the “Free Trial” button or opt for a yearly subscription of $29.95/£24. Once you do, the installation file will automatically download. During the initial setup process, you will be prompted to allow access to your Downloads folder and make changes to your security settings. Once that is done, you are good to go.

You have the ability to manually initiate a scan from the main screen, but there are multiple alternative choices available. A brief scan will examine system files and other sections of your Mac, you have the option to choose your hard drive to scan all folders and files on it, and you can simply drag and drop a single folder or file onto the scanning panel to check for malware. Additionally, you can select an external drive or USB stick for scanning. There is also a continuously active component called Sentry that performs real-time scanning to protect your system.

You have the ability to set a specific schedule for conducting various types of scans. Malicious files are automatically placed in quarantine, but you have the option to choose whether or not to do so for infected files. The quarantine folder can be accessed to view the files that were detected.

In June 2022, ClamXAV received a perfect score in AV-Test’s evaluations. However, it has not been assessed again since then.

ClamXAV proved effective at detecting and stopping test malware files, but there’s nothing more to the program beyond the basic antivirus scanning and options. ClamXAV is certainly effective at virus scanning, but that’s a capability found in many free and equally effective security products for the Mac.

Malwarebytes offers free and premium options for individuals to use. However, the features available in the Mac version are not as comprehensive as those in the Windows version. The Mac premium version includes basic scans for viruses and malware, as well as the ability to identify harmful applications or PUPs (potentially unwanted programs). The real-time protection feature continuously monitors your system for potential security risks and proactively blocks and isolates any potential threats to your computer.

However, it does not include built-in defenses against harmful links or phishing attacks. It also lacks protection against ransomware and new vulnerabilities.

A no-cost option of Malwarebytes is available, however it only offers standard virus scanning. The upgraded version is priced at $3.33/£2.50 per month or $39.99/£29.99 per year for one device, and $6.67/£5.83 per month or $79.99/£69.99 per year for five devices. A 14-day complimentary trial is also available.

On a Mac, Malwarebytes Premium can be accessed through a menu bar icon. Clicking the icon will bring up a menu with various options, including starting a scan, temporarily disabling malware protection and the malicious app blocker, updating the program, adjusting settings, and opening the management console.

Using the management console, you have the ability to initiate a manual scan and establish regular scheduled scans. The detection history shows all items that have been quarantined. You can also use the Allow list to include valid files or programs that were incorrectly identified as malware.

In April 2023, AV-Test gave Malwarebytes Premium for Windows a near-perfect score, with 5 out of 6 points for protection. However, the Mac version of the software has not yet been evaluated by AV-Test. In July to October of 2022, Malwarebytes was tested by AV Comparatives and received a 99% rating, but there have been no further evaluations since then.

Unfortunately, the Mac version does not seem to measure up to the Windows edition.

F-Secure Total for Mac is a simple-to-use security software suite that works on macOS, iOS, Windows and Android devices and protects your data from a wide range of threats. It includes several useful features, but lacks certain key options, especially in virus scanning.

The annual cost for one device is $59.99, which may seem high, but there is a complimentary 30-day trial that does not require a credit card and also provides free technical assistance if needed.

When you click the Scan button, a complete scan for viruses will be performed on your entire system. Alternatively, clicking on the Viruses & Threats link will take you to a screen where you can scan specific folders. However, unlike the Windows version, there are no options for a quick scan or scheduling a scan. The program also offers real-time protection against malware through automatic blocking and has a feature called ‘DeepGuard’ that monitors applications for any signs of a malware infection.

One option is to enable ID monitoring, which will monitor your email address for any data breaches across your various online accounts. Another protective measure is to use a VPN, which includes features such as tracking protection to block advertisers from monitoring your online activity and a kill switch to immediately stop all internet traffic.

F-Secure offers a password vault that creates and stores secure logins for all your accounts. The password vault requires an extension that supports Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Safari isn’t yet supported.

Regrettably, F-Secure does not provide the option to examine blocked or deleted harmful files, and there is no feature to isolate files instead of deleting them.

In June 2023, AV-Test evaluated F-Secure Safe (formerly known as F-Secure Internet Security) and gave it a protection score of 5 out of 6, a performance score of 5.5 out of 6, and a usability score of 6.