Ransomware-which is malware that will rapidly encrypt user files like documents and mailboxes and then delete the originals-has become a huge moneymaker on other platforms. Great AV suites also will monitor the filesystem for certain kinds of changes. And ideally, files identified as malicious should be quarantined into a special storage area managed by the AV software, with the option to automatically delete files known to be malware or repair normal documents that also carry devious payloads. Since you can encounter threats by visiting compromised or malicious websites, receiving virus-laden attachments, or accessing USB drives with malware, good AV software should scan on a continuous basis unless you configure it otherwise. That means preventing the download, installation, or execution of malicious software.

We’ll keep evaluating new and refreshed software on a regular basis, so be sure to come back to see what else we’ve put through the ringer.īy our reckoning, antivirus software should be able to neutralize a threat before it can begin wreaking havoc. If you have specific requirements or just wish to see other options, below is a list of all the antivirus software we’ve reviewed. Our top contenders dominate by posting perfect (or virtually near perfect) scores from security research labs, passing our own malware detection tests with flying colors, offering well-designed interfaces, and even throwing in extra features like a firewall or password manager. Many antivirus suites provide a decent level of protection, but a few rise above all others by providing the very best in performance. It’ll catch malware that’s still spreading or in circulation block ransomware protect older systems with out-of-date software from security vulnerabilities prevent your Mac from acting as a carrier for malware aimed at other operating systems and keep infected files off of any virtual machines you’re running.

Even if you don’t care about adware or being used as means to infect users on other platforms, it’s still possible to fall victim to ransomware, password theft, or stolen iPhone backups.Īccordingly, good antivirus software will protect your Mac on all of these fronts. Macs may be a far less tempting target for malware and viruses, but they’re not immune from attack.

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