Although arguably unnecessary, Macintosh antivirus software exists as an option for Mac users seeking extra security against malware and viruses.
There are several options to choose from such as ClamXav, Norton Antivirus For Mac, McAfee VirusScan and Intego VirusBarrier X5.
ClamXav Freeware Macintosh Virus Protection Software
Perhaps the most compelling feature of the ClamXav Mac antivirus program is that it is available free of charge. Once installed, the program will scan for viruses on demand and will even detect malware aimed at Windows systems.
However, ClamXav offers no real-time virus protection. In other words, the user must decide which folders are to be scanned and when. Furthermore, there tends to be a lag with ClamXav when it comes to identifying the latest malware threats for Mac OS X users.
Although the "price" is enticing, ClamXav is neither the most comprehensive Mac antivirus program nor the fastest at detecting and eliminating security threats.
Symantec Norton Antivirus 11.0 For Mac
The latest Mac virus protection software from Symantec has all the standard antivirus software options including real-time, on-demand and email scanning as well as a new dashboard widget. Despite these features and Norton’s “set-and-forget” convenience, this program seems most ideal for Mac users working in a mixed Mac-Windows environment.
While more than capable of detecting and eliminating Windows malware, Norton Antivirus is not necessarily the best at protecting against Mac-specific security threats. Mac users can expect to pay $50 USD for a Norton single user license.
McAfee VirusScan Antivirus Software For Mac
Akin to Norton Antivirus 11.0, the latest McAfee antivirus program for Mac users includes full-featured on-access scanning and their latest anti-virus technology. However, McAfee VirusScan is definitely not geared towards individual users.
Instead, potential users must purchase a minimum of 3 licenses (for a total cost of $109.65 USD) suggesting that this McAfee antivirus software is aimed at network administration. If this is the desired purpose, then McAfee VirusScan maybe the best choice as it integrates well with McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator.
Intego VirusBarrier X5 Macintosh Virus Protection
Of all the Mac antivirus programs, Intego’s VirusBarrier X5 has the most engaging graphical user interface. Not only does it look contemporary, but it also boasts a “simple, fast and non-intrusive” style of operation assuring users that workflow will not be interrupted despite rigorous scanning and verification of files for potential viruses.
VirusBarrier X5 works in the background, scanning and eliminating Mac-specific viruses as well as those targeting Windows systems. Intego VirusBarrier X5 will even scan the iPod Touch and iPhones for malware. Although is one of the more pricey Mac antivirus programs ($70USD for a single user license), it is undeniably the most Mac-friendly of the bunch.
The Best Mac Antivirus Software?
From the free license ClamXav to the more professional Intego VirusBarrier X5, Mac antivirus programs vary in feature set and price. The best choice depends on individual user requirements.
For example, if budget is an issue, then ClamXav is the only choice. For those seeking network protection, McAfee VirusScan would be a better option. Individual Mac users looking for the best protection against Mac and PC viruses/malware would do well by purchasing Intego VirusBarrier X5.
Clayton Worbeck - Clayton is a professional music producer, engineer and musician specializing in electronic and rock music. He has worked as an audio ...
Join the Conversation