If you keep your software up-to date, use strong passwords and steer away from emails that are phishing, you should be safe from malware. Even if you’ve done everything right but you still require an antivirus program as an extra layer of protection in the event that you slip up. The best antivirus program depends on the operating system you use, how many devices to safeguard, and whether you need extra features like a password manager, VPN dark web monitoring, or family protection.
When you evaluate an antivirus, it is important to determine how it performs in independent tests. A good antivirus must be compatible with your operating system, and should use minimal resources so that it does not impact your computer performance. It is also important to know how often the antivirus is updated, and if it is compatible with multiple devices.
In tests conducted by Macworld, Intego Mac’s Internet Security X9 performed well. It includes VirusBarrier, a top antivirus, as well as NetBarrier, which is a firewall that works. It also was able to detect all malware samples and warned them when they tried to run uninvited programs on their Macs. It’s compatible with macOS and, unlike some of its competitors, looks and behaves like an actual Mac program. It also allows you to purchase a backup service for your most valuable files, Android apps for mobile security, and a more robust firewall.
The power of TotalAV’s engine, its wide range of features and an intuitive dashboard make it an ideal choice for new users looking for a simple program to comprehend. Its heuristic detection method detects viruses that aren’t in the database, and its behavior monitoring identifies any changes in the behavior of a program. Sandboxing allows you to run suspicious software in a secluded environment to prevent them from creating damage. In AV Comparatives tests it had the lowest false-positive rate, and its speedy scan was extremely quick.