4 Best Apple Firewall Apps For macOS X Web Application Security Updated: January 3, 2020 / Home » Computer and Internet Security » Download Free Antivirus Windows / macOS One of the biggest myth regarding computer security on an Apple Mac is your computer will never ever be infected with any malware. The app doesn't have much to it aside from on-off sliders, and a few minor settings, but for those who just want a set-it-and-forget-it option, AVG's free antivirus for Mac is a good choice.
There is no denying that Macs are less prone to being infected with viruses and malware than PCs. In fact, due to the built-in tools that the macOS come with, many users are convinced that they need no further protection against wrongdoers. Unfortunately, this is the exact reason why criminals have started targeting Apple users with highly sophisticated malware that can easily get through the basic defenses of any Mac. However, with Mac security software on board, any computer can be turned into an impenetrable fortress, giving you enough protection online and offline.
‘But what exactly is a Mac security solution?’ you may ask. It’s a question that needs further explanation, as these apps are a bit more than just basic antiviruses. So, by clarifying the most common questions surrounding Mac security solutions, picking the software that fits your individual needs will be hassle-free.
Best Mac Security Software of 2020
| Rank | Company | Info | Visit |
| |||
| |||
|
1. Intego Mac Premium Bundle X9
It’s one thing that Intego’s Mac Premium Bundle X9 covers everything that a security bundle should, but it also managed to do so by providing a pleasant interface for all of its five apps, too. However, it’s actually the additional tools that make Intego a must-have. For instance, the parental control tool is equipped with everything needed to protect children from online harm, including the appropriately named AntiPredator feature. The Mac optimizer, on the other hand, is actually three solutions in one, providing an effective way of keeping the computer in top shape.
The core programs equally as useful, too. In fact, the antivirus stands out because of the effectiveness of its real-time scans, while the firewall is so simple to use that even the least tech-savvy users will understand it in seconds. The addition of the data backup tool, which gives an extra layer of protection for your data, is just the icing on the cake.
The price of Intego’s bundle is just as impressive since it can be used on a single Mac for as low as $59.99 per year. However, by purchasing more licenses over a longer period of time, it’s possible to save up to 70% of the original price.
2. Airo
A lighter antivirus software, Airo‘s stylish design and easy setup wows users with a spotless first impression. The software’s aim is clear from the beginning: Airo will scan and protect your Mac from any attacks as swiftly as possible. Besides its scanning features, Airo offers a few extras. You can use its Google Chrome extension to detect malware in your web downloads and rest at ease with the software’s automatic updates which keep its database informed of the latest viruses and ransomware.
What Airo lacks in extra features, however, it more than makes up for in speed and ease of use. Its “quick scan” is true to its name and takes exactly one minute to complete. The software’s deeper scan is also incredibly unobtrusive, seamlessly running in the background without affecting your computer’s overall performance.
While you may find more competitive prices out there, Airo’s certainly won’t break the bank. The most affordable way to get it is with the Single Suite which covers one Mac at $49.99 per year, which comes out to a little over $4 per month. You can also choose between two upgrade options (Pro and Family Suite) to cover more Macs for a higher premium.
3. Avast Security for Mac
Although Avast is mostly known for releasing PC products, its Mac security solutions are worth trying too. Granted, the antivirus software isn’t as feature packed as its Windows counterpart – mostly due to the lack of quick and comprehensive scans – but it does at least have everything that a decent antivirus solution should. In fact, Avast even included the scheduling of scans into the mix alongside network scans and an antiransomware tool.
Mac App Security Camera
As for other solutions included in the package, the selection is pretty limited as Mac users can only download SecureLine VPN, Avast Cleanup Pro, Avast Passwords, and two browser add-ons. However, it’s worth noting that only the password manager and its extensions are available as free upgrades. For the VPN and the Mac optimizer, additional fees need to be paid. Speaking of which, to have unlimited access to the antivirus – which includes Wi-Fi scanning and the antiransomware shield – there is a charge of $59.99 a year or $53.33 per year should you opt for a longer subscription period.
If you don’t need any extras, however, or just want to try things out first, then there is an option to choose between the limited, free forever version, a 60-day risk-free trial, and even make use of a 30-day money-back guarantee.
How to Choose the Right Mac Security Software
Features
Since Mac security solutions exist in many shapes and forms, picking the right software isn’t as easy as it seems. That’s why it’s best to think about what you and others (if necessary) truly need and choose accordingly. Free antiviruses, for instance, are perfect for the basic protection of individuals, and often they can be upgraded at any time. On the other hand, paid solutions are always equipped with more specialized features and are usually offered as part of an internet security software bundle, so they can truly provide a solution for all kinds of cyber security threats.
Compatibility and Usage
When it comes to compatibility, the situation is quite simple. Mac security solutions are often adapted from their Windows counterparts, meaning that if you want protection for a PC as well, then you can simply download the sister product of a Mac antivirus.
With usage, however, things get a bit complicated, because not all people have the same needs and the same system. In that regard, opting for the most complete internet security suite could solve the issue. These bundles not only contain all the security apps that a particular company has to offer, but they also come with multiple licenses and can be installed on all supported devices.
Research and Trial
One of the best ways to decide whether any given solution is ideal for you is to check out the opinion of internet security experts. Visiting AV-TEST’s website gives good insight into how well Mac security programs perform in different situations, but for the whole picture it’s best to read up on the software in detailed reviews like the very ones we provide. For a truly first-hand experience, however, downloading the free version of the software or testing the full software for a limited time will give you the very best insight.
Beyond Virus Protection for Mac
Even though installing an antivirus on a Mac is a good start, cyber security threats are so versatile that a single, specialized internet security app is far from enough. Thankfully, internet security companies have realized this, which is why even the most basic Mac antivirus apps have extra features that go beyond just busting malware. For instance, many of them are capable of monitoring your internet activities either on their own or via a browser add-on, but they can also protect your most important files should you be the target of a ransomware attack.
However, not even a beefed-up antivirus can battle against certain other cyber threats like cryptojacking, password sniffing, or online predators. And this is the exact reason why a Mac security solution shouldn’t just be a single app but rather multiple programs, each tailored to deal with a specific internet security issue. Although being forced to install a standalone solution for each security problem seems bothersome, this way your Mac truly becomes an impenetrable fortress. Besides, software bundles give you the freedom to select which internet security apps you need or even substitute the bundle’s in-built solutions with other third-party choices.
Free Security Software for Mac
Since being safe online is no laughing matter, there are various internet security solutions that are available free of charge. Granted, these free apps are always limited in one way or another, but since they all possess the core features of paid counterparts, they are perfect for the average user that hopes to be protected on at least one device. Antiviruses and password managers in particular always have free versions – with an option to upgrade – but depending on the chosen solution there may be additional features to enjoy without paying, whether that’s a basic VPN, a manual software updater, and so on.
That doesn’t mean that you should limit yourself only to free, basic programs all the time, though. In fact, the vast majority of Mac security software providers allow users to test their solutions without limitations for a short period of time either via a trial or a money-back guarantee. This often means that all apps included in the bundle have to be downloaded one by one and there may still be instances where certain functionalities aren’t available, but this at least way it’s possible to get a clearer picture of exactly what you can expect from the paid version.
Mac Internet Security 101
How Mac Security Software Works
Using a Mac security app is a breeze because they often focus on creating a user interface that is simple for anyone to use, but also because the core features like on-demand scans, the scan scheduler, and the real-time monitoring tools often require very little input. If you have prior experience with a Windows-based antivirus solution, then you’ll get the hang of a Mac antivirus even more quickly.
It’s worth adding, though, that since Macs need to be protected differently, certain features like the real-time behavior shield or the sandbox are missing from Mac antiviruses. This is a normal phenomenon, although it also means that Mac antiviruses are actually weaker than their Windows-based counterparts, requiring users to be more alert when performing tasks like surfing the web or opening a file on a USB drive.
Due to this, installing additional security tools like a web monitoring browser add-on or a VPN is highly recommended. Thankfully these apps are often included as part of internet security bundle and, unlike Mac antivirus solutions, the only difference between them and their Windows versions is a slightly modified UI and the lack of irrelevant features.
Built-in Virus Protection on Mac
Where PC users had to wait until Windows 10 for a worthwhile built-in antivirus, macOS has been long equipped with various tools to effectively protect Macs from cyber attacks. The best-known example of that is XProtect, which checks all files downloaded on the Mac against Apple’s own malware database and alerts users when opening a file that is a known threat.
The other tool for keeping Macs virus-free is Mac Gatekeeper, which only allows apps to be downloaded from the App Store and/or the websites of identified developers. And to make the deal even sweeter, Macs are also capable of encrypting important files and saving passwords via iCloud Keychain.
Although these built-in security tools are quite promising, there is a huge problem with them: they can be easily bypassed. It’s one thing that Apple’s malware database relies heavily on user reports, but against the most sophisticated malware it’s completely useless. And the fact that Gatekeeper can easily be set to allow untrusted apps to be downloaded doesn’t really make macOS’s built-in protective tools much better either…
Why You Need Virus Protection for Your Mac
Even if it’s been proven otherwise countless times, many people still believe that only PCs can be infected with viruses and malware. Unfortunately, that’s a myth; anything capable of connecting to the internet is a potential target for wrongdoers, which is why they must be protected at all cost. What’s even worse is that the built-in antivirus tools of these devices are either too weak to withstand the continuously evolving horde of malware or are simply nonexistent. In other words, it’s better to have some sort of Mac security solution installed on your Mac than relying on built-in software or, even worse, doing absolutely nothing.
Even the simplest Mac antivirus solutions are intelligent enough to recognize new and evolving viruses because they can match any unknown malware against a continuously updated database. What’s even better is that advanced real-time monitoring tools aren’t the only line of defense that comes with antiviruses; they also have customizable on-demand virus scans with which any lurking malware can be easily located, quarantined, and eliminated. Although more specialized third-party antivirus apps require the purchase of a license fee, the market is actually full of free solutions that are powerful enough to provide the necessary level of protection for everyday users.
Regardless of what people say about Mac being impervious to malware, it is always advisable to get antivirus software. As the number of Mac users is increasing, the threat increases proportionally. To secure you from any activity that could cause trouble to your system. Malware can potentially harm your operating system and steal your data. You can be an easy target if you don’t have a security tool installed to save you from cyber-attacks. We will cover the 6 best Internet Security Apps for Mac in this article.
Free Mac Security
Why You Need Internet Security Software On Mac?
Against the general norm, Mac users are prone to get malware as much as Windows users. This has been a wrong conception that people don’t need to install a tool because it is already secure. Since the interaction with portable disks and drives and constant download from internet, Mac is giving a gateway to malware. macOS is built with the Unix layout which provides tight security but the access to the internet makes it vulnerable.
6 Best Internet Security Software For Mac
To keep your system safe and secure it from threats and viruses, we have listed some of the best Mac internet security software.
1. Systweak Anti-Malware
Systweak Anti-malware for Mac provides a complete solution for securing your system from adware, malware and viruses. The use of this much-recommended product will boost your system performance and save you from any malicious threats. Running the scan for your Mac to ensure there are no viruses or bugs in your system. It tends to instantly remove the malicious apps, software and files that can corrupt the system.
Systweak Anti-Malware for Mac will scan your browser extensions for any suspicious activity. It is a great tool for you macOS as it allows you to scan plug-ins, addons and widgets for Safari, Chrome and Firefox.
Two types of scans are available – Quick scan, which looks for the most vulnerable areas on your system for malicious and infected files. The other is Deep Scan, which will run a complete scan on your system for full-proof protection. You can schedule a scan with Systweak Anti-malware to guard your Mac and you don’t have to keep a note to run the scan. Another great thing about Systweak Anti-Malware is regular database updates that keeps even the latest Mac malware at bay.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Complete protection from malware, adware and spyware | User interface can improve |
| Updated database for malware | New in market |
| Scans plug-ins, add- ons and extensions for browsers |
2. Kaspersky Internet Security
Kaspersky features parental control, locking webcam, and restrict sites from tracking your browsing activity. Before installing the software, you must check the operating system’s version. Once you have installed software, launch the app and initiate the scan. Choose from – Quick Scan or Full Scan. It will scan the threats and find out the malicious files and fix them. When browsing online, it pops up a warning message for the sites which seem contentious. Webcam can be locked and thus preventing sites from using it without your knowledge.
Although it has been found that running the scan timely will detect all kinds of malware on Mac. If it still misses one or two you can try repeating the Full Scan which takes a longer period of time. The best feature of this is the parental control which also restricts the children from sharing personal information online. It will restrict them from viewing the content which is not safe for their age. It also offers packages to be used on your PC and mobile together. Other than that, you can also get a package to share the software within your family.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Parental control | Slow scan |
| Safe Banking Transaction | Misses a few viruses |
| Lock Webcam | The scan does not start on default |
| Schedule Scan |
It is a good choice to guard your Mac against internet attacks, and secure your personal data on your Mac.
Also Read: Best Malware Removal For Mac
3. Sophos
Sophos is good for the Mac users which are not using the system for any commercial use. It is free to use for certain features and that can be enough for the users. It is light on your system and does not even have to be on your system as an app. The scan results are shown online which is saving up space for your system. However, it can also be a problem as it only helps in detecting the threats online. It cannot remove these threats as it does require access to the Mac operating system. But it will keep warning you with the message notification.
Mac Security Software
Its interface consists of a simple Menu bar and a pop-up notification where you choose to start the scan. The full scan option is good to go for acquiring any details on which virus has affected you.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Detects virus accurately | Does not always delete all virus |
| Free of cost | Not good for commercial use |
| Remote management |
If it is helping you to find out all the threats online correctly, this is a good tool to use for internet security for Mac.
4. Intego Mac Internet Security X9
Intego is one of the best for providing internet security for Mac according to us. It will prevent you from threats found in real time. Safe surfing and Firewall component comes as plugins along with the purchase of Intego Mac internet Security X9.
It comprises of two parts – Virus Barrier and Net Barrier. The NetBarrier is protecting you from unauthorized access when you are working online. Whereas VirusBarrier is working against the malware, protecting your system from getting corrupt. It blocks a connection with an unsafe website and also warns you when using any public Wifi. It will help you to identify the rogue applications which are able to access the internet and fix them.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Real-time protection | Slow scan |
| Blocks unsolicited visitors | Slows down the system |
| Location-based firewall | |
| Easy configuration |
Try the free version to test if it meets the need for Mac internet security software.
5. Bitdefender
It searches every link on Google search to identify the bad links. Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac is best-rated mac internet security software against all. For all the features it provides as antispam, firewall, multi layer ransomware, ad-ware, Safe online banking, Wifi security, webcam protection. It is a web attack prevention software for Mac, which doesn’t affect the system’s performance.
To reduce the danger of virus infliction in your system, it keeps running in the background. Bitdefender ensures you complete safety with its great features in one account.
Good Mac Security App Download
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Light on system | Not easy to use |
| Low Price | Separate download for Mobile |
| Online backup storage |
It upgrades automatically as a part of a subscription, that’s how it is designed to protect your Mac.
6. Norton Security
Norton is a renowned name among computer users. Norton Security provides the security to all the operating systems be it PC, smartphones or tablets. You can choose from the plans as per your requirements. Norton protects your system from malware and online threats. Once installed, it recommends you to get two plugin Safe Keep and Identity Safe. These are to protect you from getting any kind of privacy breach while browsing the internet.
The safety is always ensured as it stays running the check with Protection enabled by default. You can additionally have it running it the background without being informed with the summary from time to time. This is like an undemanding worker which is doing its work proficiently. So this is a very recommended product to get for the safety of Mac. One major drawback is that you can only get it for your Mac version macOS 10.10 and further. It provides you with parental control to prevent your children from surfing certain websites or to upload sensitive information
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to use | Only supported the latest versions of Mac |
| Creates Backup files | A separate plan for mobiles |
| Quick Scan |
It is an excellent tool to detect malware in your Mac, so you should get this one for its effective work.
Conclusion:
Best Mac Security Apps
It is a good decision to invest in internet security for Mac, as a small investment runs a long way. As sometimes when you visit unsafe websites or tend to download apps and files from them, security is at stake. We have listed the best internet security apps for Mac with their best features. You choose them as per your requirements after analysing their use in your Mac.