You should be protected from malware by keeping your software updated, use strong passwords, and stay clear of phishing emails. Even if you follow all the correct steps, an antivirus program is necessary as find this a safety measure in the event of a mishap. The best antivirus program is dependent on the operating system you are using and the number of devices you 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 should be compatible with your operating system, and it should consume a minimum amount of resources so that it does not hinder your computer’s performance. Another important consideration is how often you update your antivirus and whether it can be used on multiple devices.

Intego Mac Internet Security X9, that includes the highly effective antivirus VirusBarrier as well as a strong firewall known as NetBarrier, performed well in tests conducted by our colleagues from Macworld. It detected all their malware samples and alerted them if unwelcome software was running on their Macs. It is compatible with macOS, and unlike its competitors, it looks like a Mac program. It lets you purchase backup services, Android apps for mobile security and a more sophisticated firewall.

TotalAV’s powerful engine, a diverse set of features and a user-friendly dashboard make it a great option for first-time users who are seeking something easy to grasp. Its heuristic-based detection system can identify malware that isn’t in the database and its behavior monitoring monitors changes in the way the program operates, and Sandboxing allows suspicious programs to run in a secure environment, so they won’t cause harm. In tests by AV-Comparatives it had one of the lowest false positive rates and its scan was quick and fast.