Mac antivirus software isn't often checked by the independent testing labs, but Avast's most recent results were good, with AV Comparative's 2018 test finding the package detected 100 percent of.
There are a number of free antivirus software available for MAC. These free MAC antivirus software provide you the best virus protection for MAC. You can use these software to scan for viruses on MAC computers and also safeguard your online activities. These also scan MAC for virus, malware, adware, and various other security threats. Mac antivirus software isn't often checked by the independent testing labs, but Avast's most recent results were good. Best free games 2020: the top free games to download on PC.
© Provided by Consumer ReportsConsumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site.
In an era when malware is a looming threat to personal computers—not to mention smartphones, routers, and even TVs—the benefits of antivirus software are obvious. But given the wide range of options, it's tough to choose the one that provides the best protection. Despite constant threats, many people choose to go without any at all.
That's why we put more than 30 antivirus programs, including about 10 free offerings, to the test, exposing computers running Windows 10 and macOS to a host of malware samples and malicious websites.
To evaluate the programs' scam-fighting capabilities, we tossed in 200 phishing web pages, too. These are sites that try to trick consumers into providing sensitive information, such as passwords. Then we looked at how easy each AV program was to use and whether its operation had a negative effect on the computer's overall performance.
For a full breakdown of the test results, see our updated antivirus software ratings. And here are some recommendations and tips based on what we learned.
Finding the Right AV Package
You don't have to pay for solid AV protection.Avira Free Security Suite got high marks from our testers for its ability to stop threats. Kaspersky Security Cloud Free and Avast Free Antivirus 2020 also performed well.
Avast, which also owns AVG-branded antivirus products, came under fire earlier this year when it was revealed that the company was using its anitvirus products to collect user data, which it then sold. The company says it has since ceased this practice.
The Windows 10 Defender software that comes installed on new Windows computers is not quite as strong as those first three, but it still offers considerable protection.
But paid programs have extra benefits. Shelling out money—generally $40 to $70—does get you a few perks, says Richard Fisco, who heads electronics testing for CR. Case in point: In addition to its top-rated malware-fighting abilities, ESET Internet Security - 2020 offers a firewall, a spam filter, parental filters, and banking protection. Other paid products provide password managers, anti-ransomware features, and email protections.
Another benefit to a paid program? With one of these, you don't get peppered with pop-ups asking you to upgrade from the free version, Fisco says. 'They can be almost as annoying as adware that pops up on social media and other websites, and constantly bugs you to buy something,' he says.
Opening your wallet does not guarantee you a better product.HitmanPro Alert, $55, posted some of the lowest scores in our ratings when it came to malware protection without offering any meaningful extras. And Malwarebytes Premium performed almost as badly. In both cases, you're better off just sticking with Defender.
Yes, Macs need AV, too. Less malware is aimed at Macs than at PCs, but that's changing, Fisco says. The amount of malware written for Macs continues to rise. And though Windows PCs have Defender built in, Macs don't come with anything comparable. As a result, Apple fans can't afford to ignore cyberthreats any longer.
'And if you don't protect yourself and you get an infected file,' Fisco says, 'you can pass that malware on to a friend with a Windows PC.'
If you're looking for free antivirus software for Mac computers, we recommend AVG Antivirus for Mac. The top paid options include Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac - 2020, $30, and Kaspersky Internet Security for Mac - 2020, $35.
Download the software from trusted sites. If you click on a pop-up ad promising free AV protection, you could easily end up with malware on your computer. These ads are a common scam employed by cybercriminals. To be safe, go straight to the source and manually type in the web address for the company that offers the product you want to use.
Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2020, Consumer Reports, Inc.
Antivirus is one of the basic requirements for security on our computers. Mac devices are said to be the safest systems. Even they cannot function well without antivirus software. It is always a good idea to invest in security forces for your mac devices. They will help to ensure you are safe from any attacks in the future. Antiviruses play an essential part in keeping your device safe. As a concerned mac owner, I would recommend you to install antivirus software.
Best Antivirus Softwares for Mac (2020)
This guide will help you make your decision in choosing the right antivirus. Here you will find multiple options according to your requirements. Our top picks include the following.
1. Norton Software
Norton is known for its high-quality status in the industry. The Symantec Corporation has been in business since 1991. They are the old school antivirus providers who have perfected their craft. The sheer experience the developers have is commendable. It has been a dominant player in the industry as Norton is reliable antivirus software available across all platforms. Additional features include parental control, password manager, and safe cam.
Your mac device is in safe hands if you purchase the Norton antivirus. It is known for its extensive library, which covers every possible malware and virus. The software comes with comprehensive plans. These are designed to cover your protection at all ends. Your online and offline security are both essential to Norton. Their premium plans provide you with access to a secure VPN service as well. Their only con is the lack of a free trial.
- Visit – https://in.norton.com/products/norton-360-antivirus-plus.
2. McAfee
McAfee is the first third-party antivirus as it started the digital security software revolution. It has been around for more than 33 years. Before McAfee, no one realized the importance of having an external antivirus service. Today their complete protection line of software is safeguarding millions of PC devices.
This software will help you defend your mac against malware, spyware, adware, latest viruses, and even the dreaded ransomware attacks. Users can easily stay on top of their privacy and identity with McAfee. They also offer a 30-day free trial. The software works to collectively keep track of your internet security, data privacy, and WiFi network security. The premium software includes VPN, encrypted storage, password management, safe browsing, and premium support. It is the best deal for serious mac users.
- Visit – https://www.mcafee.com/en-in/for-home.html.
3. Bitdefender
Bitdefender is a relatively new software around the block in comparison to the other competitors. The software has been around since 2001. With a good 19 years of experience, they have excelled in the field. Their services are preferred by over 500 million active users worldwide. The software goes well beyond basic security guidelines.
The antivirus is known to be quite efficient. Through their services, your prone and weak points will be secured first. The software helps you with internet anonymity, unlimited encrypted traffic, and secure public networks. It also includes a multi-layered ransomware protection tool, webcam protection services, and guaranteed zero system downtime. Bitdefender is one of the most efficient and effective antivirus software. It will make your mac device a fortress.
- Visit – https://www.bitdefender.com/solutions/premium-security.html.
4. Intego
Intego is a private mac exclusive security company. They have been around since 1997 to provide users with high-grade antivirus features. Since they are focussed on mac devices, their services are more refined. They claim to offer the best internet security to their customers. The developers have a high level of expertise when it comes to mac security.
It is a good idea to invest in a service that has worked on a single platform for years to perfect their work. Their services are at the forefront of all the mac malware database research. It has helped them to stay ahead in the game. The team is always focussed on Apple threats. It will enable us to stay secure on mac devices efficiently. They also have a premium free trial available.
- Visit –https://www.intego.com/#.
5. Avira software
Avira is a popular free to use antivirus software. Their services are available on all platforms, including macOS. They have completely redefined the way people perceive antivirus software. They offer premium services without a single penny. It has a simple user interface making the software easy to use. Avira keeps all of your data secure and doesn't breach any privacy rules.
The software provides users with protection from adware, malware, ransomware, and spyware. The app runs silently in the background without consuming a lot of resources. The Avira engine lacks the resource database. However, this makes it fast and light. Avira will block all the malicious attacks before they can even take place. It is an award-winning free to use antivirus.
- Visit – https://www.avira.com/en/free-antivirus-mac.
6. Kaspersky Mac
Kaspersky is a famous brand name in the antivirus industry. It has defined online and offline security for generations to come. They are well known for their windows and macOS antivirus software. Kaspersky's total protection for mac is a great option.
2. McAfee
McAfee is the first third-party antivirus as it started the digital security software revolution. It has been around for more than 33 years. Before McAfee, no one realized the importance of having an external antivirus service. Today their complete protection line of software is safeguarding millions of PC devices.
This software will help you defend your mac against malware, spyware, adware, latest viruses, and even the dreaded ransomware attacks. Users can easily stay on top of their privacy and identity with McAfee. They also offer a 30-day free trial. The software works to collectively keep track of your internet security, data privacy, and WiFi network security. The premium software includes VPN, encrypted storage, password management, safe browsing, and premium support. It is the best deal for serious mac users.
- Visit – https://www.mcafee.com/en-in/for-home.html.
3. Bitdefender
Bitdefender is a relatively new software around the block in comparison to the other competitors. The software has been around since 2001. With a good 19 years of experience, they have excelled in the field. Their services are preferred by over 500 million active users worldwide. The software goes well beyond basic security guidelines.
The antivirus is known to be quite efficient. Through their services, your prone and weak points will be secured first. The software helps you with internet anonymity, unlimited encrypted traffic, and secure public networks. It also includes a multi-layered ransomware protection tool, webcam protection services, and guaranteed zero system downtime. Bitdefender is one of the most efficient and effective antivirus software. It will make your mac device a fortress.
- Visit – https://www.bitdefender.com/solutions/premium-security.html.
4. Intego
Intego is a private mac exclusive security company. They have been around since 1997 to provide users with high-grade antivirus features. Since they are focussed on mac devices, their services are more refined. They claim to offer the best internet security to their customers. The developers have a high level of expertise when it comes to mac security.
It is a good idea to invest in a service that has worked on a single platform for years to perfect their work. Their services are at the forefront of all the mac malware database research. It has helped them to stay ahead in the game. The team is always focussed on Apple threats. It will enable us to stay secure on mac devices efficiently. They also have a premium free trial available.
- Visit –https://www.intego.com/#.
5. Avira software
Avira is a popular free to use antivirus software. Their services are available on all platforms, including macOS. They have completely redefined the way people perceive antivirus software. They offer premium services without a single penny. It has a simple user interface making the software easy to use. Avira keeps all of your data secure and doesn't breach any privacy rules.
The software provides users with protection from adware, malware, ransomware, and spyware. The app runs silently in the background without consuming a lot of resources. The Avira engine lacks the resource database. However, this makes it fast and light. Avira will block all the malicious attacks before they can even take place. It is an award-winning free to use antivirus.
- Visit – https://www.avira.com/en/free-antivirus-mac.
6. Kaspersky Mac
Kaspersky is a famous brand name in the antivirus industry. It has defined online and offline security for generations to come. They are well known for their windows and macOS antivirus software. Kaspersky's total protection for mac is a great option.
The software will block all malware and crypto blockers along with other coherent threats. All of your online payments are secured with internet security tools. The app will encrypt all of your data for online transmission. It comes with a VPN service to protect your online identity. The application also brings advanced features as child protection. They provide customers with premium support to make their deal irresistible.
- Visit –https://www.kaspersky.co.in/total-security.
Best Computer Antivirus Security Software
7. Bullguard For MAC
Bullguard is a relatively new security company in the market. They are trying to provide users with top quality services at an affordable price. Their service makes use of advanced machine learning to keep your mac device secure. It will also include access to a massive database of virus directories giving you the next generation of malware protection. Personal identity is also of importance here.
Bullguard ensures that your data is secure and doesn't get misused. All of your sensitive information is encrypted with this app. They also offer a game booster feature that is underrated. Parents can have access to the parental control settings to assert dominance. The vulnerability scanner will protect you from possible future threats. Try out their free version to see the results yourself.
- Visit – https://www.bullguard.com/products/bullguard-antivirus.aspx.
Conclusion:
Free Antivirus For Mac Computers
macOS is the world's second-largest operating system. Many people have the misconception that Apple devices cannot get malware. Lack of antivirus on apple devices makes them prone to attacks.
Free Antivirus For Mac Computers
Through this guide, we aimed at providing our users with a list of the top antivirus for mac devices. This software is added to the order of preference. Give them a try with the ones which offer a free trial. Investing in an antivirus is the long term solution. We wish you all a safe computing experience.
