Do I Need An Anti-Virus?
Before we begin, you need to assess for your threat model, which is described in more detail in this guide here. I suggest reading through it before proceeding.
Do I Need an Anti-Virus on Windows?
It is widely agreed that due to the prevalence of viruses that target Window systems, and how Windows Defender is not a suitable equivalent to having an anti-virus, it is advised to still use an anti-virus.
However, a lot of this depends on your conclusions you made regarding your threat model.
Which Anti-Virus?
The best anti-virus is the one that accommodates your needs the best. By that I mean there are anti-viruses that run cross-platform even on mobile operating systems, and those with family bundles if you live with other people which may lower the cost of split amongst you.
Also keep in mind anti-virus software goes on sale regularly, so keep your eyes out for good deals!
- For cross-platform protection, BitDefender is highly regarded.
- For just checking a particular file for an infection, VirusTotal is often used.
- For a free (with limitations) option, Malwarebytes Free is usually suggested.
Do I Need an Anti-Virus on Macs?
There is a belief that Macs do not need anti-viruses, either due to a perception that they are more secure, or that viruses for Macs do not exist. While viruses for Windows are more popular, viruses do exist for Macs and can bypass security. Furthermore, while Windows viruses cannot infect Macs, you may unknowingly spread a Windows virus through email or file transfer to others as no anti-virus warned you that file was infected.
Having said that, spending money on a Mac anti-virus may not be worth it. You again need to assess your threat model to determine your risk. For example, if you never share files to Windows users, never download from dodgy websites, never install applications from outside the App Store or not by Apple verified developers, then you might consider your risk level to be quite low and the built-in security measures might be enough.
Which Anti-Virus?
The best anti-virus is the one that accommodates your needs the best. By that I mean there are anti-viruses that are just for Macs, ones that run cross-platform even on mobile operating systems, and those with family bundles if you live with other people which may lower the cost of split amongst you.
Also keep in mind anti-virus software goes on sale regularly, so keep your eyes out for good deals!
- For a Mac only anti-virus, ClamXAV is generally considered a good choice.
- For cross-platform protection, BitDefender is highly regarded.
- For just checking a particular file for an infection, VirusTotal is often used.
- For a free (with limitations) option, Malwarebytes Free is usually suggested.