- Does Mac Computer Need Antivirus Software
- Antivirus Software For Computers
- Do Mac Computers Use Antivirus Software Download
The days of PCs being viewed as virus-ridden boxes of dismay are long gone. But that doesn't mean there aren't lots of terrible people out there creating malicious programs with the intent to steal something or just create havoc.
Some PC makers will preload antivirus software and try to coerce you into signing up for it because that's how they make money. But you shouldn't ever feel pressured, and you likely don't need whatever it is they're shilling.
But do you actually need antivirus software in 2020? Yes ... but ...
The misconception that only Windows OS computers need antivirus protection is just that—a misconception. And other layers of security to keep your Mac running only the software or apps that. Apr 05, 2020 Well, by default (stock) you wouldn’t and since its not a windows OS, unless you dive too deep with sharks or dwell on the edge of pop up websites & follow safe practice rules for browsing you are safe (hope that came out right ^^, safe practice.
Does Mac Computer Need Antivirus Software
It's not only viruses you need to watch out for
The fact that we still refer to this type of software as 'antivirus' is out of date. No longer do we have to be worried only about nasty viruses infecting our computers and wiping out our personal data. Malware is perhaps more common today, with a different tactic to achieve a still-nefarious goal.
The worst part is that the 'best' malware — if you can really even call it that — will quietly sneak onto your PC without you knowing. It'll maybe lie dormant, hidden from view, but all the while, it will also do something you don't want it to.
Whatever the term for it, the threats out there are still very real.
Antivirus Software For Computers
You have protection in Windows 10
Microsoft takes your security and safety in this permanently-online world very seriously, and it built some very important tools into Windows 10 to keep you safe. And, because it's integrated into the OS, it doesn't hog any additional resources. Microsoft also updates it frequently with new data definitions, all the while looking to keep the latest threats at bay.
If, for any reason, something breaks through and you can't get rid of it, there's a beefed-up version called Windows Defender Offline. You can run this while not connected to the internet from a USB drive, and it should find those harder-to-kill viruses.
Windows Defender is still considered in many corners to be little more than a baseline, though. Whatever your own opinion, it's still a useful tool, and there's no reason not to use it. It's also good to use alongside other software.
You can never be too careful
You might think that you're careful when you're online, visiting reputable sites and downloading from official sources like the Windows Store, or iTunes. But here's the thing: You're never truly careful if you're going online completely unprotected.
Would you ride a motorcycle without a helmet? Even if you're careful, there's potential for disaster.
The people coding viruses and malware know exactly how to get it out to the wider world. That's why it still exists.
Something is always better than nothing
Earlier, we asked if you need to use antivirus today. The answer was yes, and no. The no refers to the fact that you don't have to go and find antivirus software anymore. If you're using Windows 10, and everything is up to date, you already have a solid, free tool built in that won't hog your system resources and will keep an eye on things in the background.
Do Mac Computers Use Antivirus Software Download
And if you're using nothing at all, immediately go enable Windows Defender. (Do it now!)
Sadly, you do still need antivirus software in 2020. It's not necessarily to stop viruses anymore, but there are all kinds of miscreants out there who want nothing more than to steal and cause mayhem by getting inside your PC. It sounds scary, but because much of our lives are now conducted online, the threat is as real as ever.
Which route you take and which software you use is ultimately your decision. But don't think it won't happen to you. That's precisely when it will.
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No, you should not at this time.
Helpful Links Regarding Malware Protection
An excellent link to read is Tom Reed's Mac Malware Guide.
Also, visit The XLab FAQs and read Detecting and avoiding malware and spyware.
See these Apple articles:
If you require anti-virus protection Thomas Reed recommends using Dr.Web Light from the App Store. It's free, and since it's from the App Store, it won't destabilize the system. If you prefer one of the better known commercial products, then Thomas recommends using Sophos.(Thank you to Thomas Reed for these recommendations.) If you already use Sophos, then be aware of this if you are using Mavericks: OS X Mavericks- Sophos Anti-Virus on-access scanner versions 8.0 - 9.1 may cause unexpected restarts
From user Joe Bailey comes this equally useful advice:
The facts are:
1. There is no anti-malware software that can detect 100% of the malware out there.
2. There is no anti-malware that can detect anything targeting the Mac because there
is no Mac malware in the wild, and therefore, no 'signatures' to detect.
3. The very best way to prevent the most attacks is for you as the user to be aware that
the most successful malware attacks rely on very sophisticated social engineering
techniques preying on human avarice, ****, and fear.
4. Internet popups saying the FBI, NSA, Microsoft, your ISP has detected malware on
your computer is intended to entice you to install their malware thinking it is a
protection against malware.
5. Some of the anti-malware products on the market are worse than the malware
from which they purport to protect you.
6. Be cautious where you go on the internet.
7. Only download anything from sites you know are safe.
8. Avoid links you receive in email, always be suspicious even if you get something
you think is from a friend, but you were not expecting.
9. If there is any question in your mind, then assume it is malware.
Apr 11, 2014 7:02 PM