Best anti virus program to purchase

I have tried the free versions of Cyberdefender, Prevx, ESET, PC Tools, AVG and Webroot. Most are just scanners or trial versions, but I am looking to buy the full version one of these. All of these offer a $29 paid version (except AVG-$34 is cheapest paid version). I am leaning to Cyberdefender, but I would like some feedback if anyone has used the paid version. I like that Cyberdefender is a public company and that they have 24/7 computer help that goes beyond tech help for the software. I would like to know if someone has some information on the performance of the paid version of these programs?Which offers the best protection/speed balance? Do you think the 24/7 computer help is valuable? I know that if I call the Geek Squad, they charge an arm and a leg just to look at a system, so I think it is.
Any thoughts?
When I buy, I look for More...

I haven't purchased one for home use in several years, and I usualy recommend the following for home use.
Either AVAST Free Edition of Grisoft's AVG Free edition
My preference of late has been with AVAST's product because updates are timely. There are quite a few settings to customize the level of protection you want (or need). AVAST scored highly on it's low use of system resources (about 10% according to PC Magazine), while it's detection level scores higher than McAfee or Symantec's product, it does score a little lower on virus removal than those products. Overall though, it scored just as well or higher than commercial products you pay for. Consider that you don't have to pay for, that's pretty impressive. I couple it with Lavasoft's free edition of Ad-aware.
Grisoft's AVG Free Edition has also been a great app for years, though many users have been upset with some of the changs incorporated with version 8, PC Magazine rated it very high.
McAfee's product seems to have been systematically going down hill over the past few years.
Symantecs product was going through the same thing, but the 2009 version seems to have addressed the complaints about system performance.
Webroot's product is very good and rates high in detection and removal, but it tends to be a resource hog.
The most important thing about any anti-virus software is that you keep it updated and set the security levels appropriately. Most anti-virus apps install with default settings that try to balance system performance and level of detection - especially the resident detection shield which constantly monitors files accessed by your system. You can increased the level of detection and see if the setting affects your system performance too much. You can also change the default settings for which file types it scans. Most apps will have a default list, but you can include more file types (with probably some level of performance hit) and see if that gives you the level of protection you want/need.

Similar Messages

HT1338 what is the best anti-virus program for a macbook pro?

What is the best anti-virus program to use for a MacBook Pro?

DanHoumes wrote:
What is the best anti-virus program to use for a MacBook Pro?
None, but if you really believe you want something, then download ClamXav. Read more on right of page under 'More Like This'.
Cheers
Pete

What is the best anti-virus programe for windows 7 32 bit??

what is the lightest and fastest anti-virus programe for windows 7 32 bit ??
any recomendations would be appreciated
thank you :)

The issue is not how light or fast the AV software is but how effective it is in protecting your computer.
AV Software reviews:
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2372364,00.asp
and: http://anti-virus-software-review.toptenreviews.com/
J W Stuart: http://www.pagestart.com
Never be afraid to ask. This forum has some of the best people in the world available to help.

What's Best Anti-Virus Program for a Mac?

I know that most people think that Macs don't get viruses, but I'm a computer teacher in a public school and we recently got the W97M virus. It's in the Microsoft Word program, and although it may not hurt specifically our iMacs, it has caused other problems. We get frequent error messages and also the spinning ball, the latter of which could be caused by a number of reasons. Another teacher used her flash drive from school on her home computer, and the computer died. It was a PC, but she's not sure if it's from the virus or not.
Anyway, I depend on flash drives a lot to transfer documents I create at school to my home computer and vise-versa. Ever since I heard about this virus, and we've gotten other viruses too, I haven't used my flash drives on my home computer. I have a G5 with the 10.3.9 operating system that eventually I'd like to upgrade. The only two anti-virus programs I've seen the names of are iAntiVirus and ClamXAV. I thought that I had read a while ago that ClamXAV detects the virus but doesn't remove it. (or it may have been another anti-virus program) I would like one that not only detects it but also removes it, whether the program is a free one or one you have to buy. Also, I need one that is okay with my present operating system (OSX 10.3.9) and also will work with whatever the newest OSX system exists when I upgrade.
Thank you for your help.

The developer of ClamXav created a front-end (the GUI interface) for an open source back-end that actually does the real work. There are apparently ClamAV applications for other platforms.
So it seems like the developer is saying that the 1.1.1 version of ClamXav for Panther is the current front-end version, but the back-end "engine" is a slightly older version. The back-end for the Tiger and later version no longer works with Panther. But that should be OK, because the program downloads updated definition files as new malware is identified. Since the developer can no longer support creating a version for Panther, this version is the last one.
Also, ClamXav is a scanning program. It does not take any action to remove malware (as far as I know). It just tells you about what if finds, and it's up to you to remove or replace the compromised file. I my case, the only things it finds are malware embedded in spam/junk emails, so I just need to find and delete those emails.
Note: I had not used ClamXav in a long time, and the 1.1.1 version does not work in Snow Leopard. But there is a beta 2.0 version that does work with Snow Leopard.

What is the best anti-virus program?

Corporate policy requires the installation of an anti-virus program on all our machines. I'd like to know the pros and cons on the various ones out there. Norton and Macffee I've used in the past and neither worked well. Which of the rest would you advise? Please don't waste time telling me that AV programs are not necessary on a Mac - I know that and you know that, but you know how inflexible corporate policies can be.
PS - it would need to be a universal program.
Thanks

It simply seems to work. It is not a resource hog. I like that I can disable the background scan. It is integrated (unlike ClamAV) so it detected the virus test file on download. The only thing that concerns me is that currently the definitions are a month old. Kinds of odd as the definitions on my PC are a day old. So I hope that helps you. I'm not a virus scanner master but all I know is that I have seen Norton and I did not like the way it worked. Seemed to be a resource hog and came bundled with tons of other stuff I didn't need. Intego on the other hand was easy to buy, download, and install. So, I hope that helps at least a bit.
~David

Macbook durability/Best Anti Virus Program for Mac

I was just curious to know how durable the macbook is? Ive brought it to college today and I am making sure I carry my bag carefully without bumping it at all. So how durable is the macbook to little bumbs? Also there is no problem with it being on its side in my bag right? like its a laptop right? lol AND I have been looking at the adult site :P hehe and im just paranoid that my macbook might become inffected! I have ClamXv or wutever its called but I was wondering if there was anything better than this out there?
Thanx!

The MacBook is pretty darn durable with its poly shell. It is much more resistant to dings than the MBPs.
AV software is a good idea, but many Mac users do not bother as there are no viruses for OS X. You have ClamXav and that is the most recommended AV software since it is good and free.
No need to pay for additional AV software.

What's the best anti-virus program for my iMac?

Any help is appreciated.

ClamXav 2.2.5. But if you are concerned about the recent malware issues then see:
Helpful Links Regarding Flashback Trojan
Visit Thomas Reed's site for insight and help: Mac Malware Guide
A Google search can reveal a variety of alternatives on how the remove the trojan should your computer get infected. This can get you started. However, be careful about what you do as new variants of the malware circumvent the efforts of earlier tools.
Also see Apple's article About Flashback malware.
Apple has released Java updates for Snow Leopard and Lion users:
Java for OS X Lion 2012-003; available only for users of Lion with Java installed.
Java for Mac OS X 10.6 Update 8; available only for users of Snow Leopard.
Flashback malware removal tool; available only for users of Lion without Java installed.
Install whichever shows up in Software Update. It removes the malware (if present), updates Java (if present) and tightens up Java settings for the future. You may download from Apple's web site instead of using Software Update, but it's important to know which one to get, because the other two won't work for you.
For the truly paranoid see 10 Simple Tips for Boosting The Security Of Your Mac.

How can i tell if I have malware and what anti virus program is best?

please suggest the best anti virus program and how I can determine if I have a virus

The fact that your bank account was hacked doesn't mean that you have a "virus," despite what the bank may have told you. It means either that the bank had a breach of its internal security, which it prefers to blame on you, or that you chose a weak password or weak security questions that someone was able to guess. The password should a be a random string of at least 10 random upper- and lower-case letters and digits. You don't need to, and should not be able to, remember it.

Best anti virus/spyware software to date?

Hello,
What is the best anti virus/spyware software to date?
Thanks,
Jordan

Jordan asks:
What is the best anti virus ... software to date
I sez:
Don't date software. Date girls.
But if you MUST date software and are concerned about catching cooties, may I suggest that Intego's new VirusBarrier 4X ?
Intego VirusBarrier X4 is the simple, fast and non-intrusive antivirus security solution for Macintosh computers, by Intego, the leading publisher of personal security software for Macintosh. It offers thorough protection against viruses of all types, coming from infected files or applications, whether on CD-ROMs, DVDs or other removable media, or on files downloaded over the Internet or other types of networks.
Intego VirusBarrier X4 protects your computer from viruses by constantly examining all the files that your computer opens and writes, as well as watching for suspicious activity that may be the sign of viruses acting on applications or other files. With Intego VirusBarrier X4 on your computer, you can rest assured that your Macintosh has the best protection available against viruses of all kinds.
Intego VirusBarrier X4 is an application that works in the background and checks everything that your computer does, looking for viruses. It detects and eradicates all known viruses, including Word and Excel macro viruses, and even viruses targeting the Windows operating system. It knows the unique signatures of all known Macintosh viruses, and whenever a new virus is discovered, Intego's Virus Monitoring Center goes into action to provide updated virus definitions, which you can download using Intego VirusBarrier X4's automatic NetUpdate function.
When you purchase a license for Intego VirusBarrier X4, you have access to virus definition updates for one year from the date of purchase. After this time, additional subscriptions, allowing you to extend your access to virus definition updates, are available from Intego, and can be purchased by using NetUpdate.
Intego VirusBarrier X4 was designed according to specific concepts. The main idea is that an antivirus program should not require the user to do anything once it is installed and configured, unless a virus is detected. The Intego VirusBarrier X4 philosophy can be summed up in three words: simple, fast and non-intrusive.

VIRUS in my Mac BOOK .. When I bought my mac book 6 months ago, everything was perfect.. but then when I open some webpage..it comes a lot of ads or pages unsafe .. that before it didn't appear.. I don't know if have to download a anti virus program.HELP

VIRUS in my Mac BOOK .. When I bought my mac book 6 months ago, everything was perfect.. but then when I open some webpage..it comes a lot of ads or pages unsafe .. that before it didn't appear.. I don't know if have to download a anti virus program.HELP

Not a virus, but it is malware: The Safe Mac » Search Results » adware removal.
Helpful Links Regarding Malware Protection
An excellent link to read is Tom Reed's Mac Malware Guide.
Also, visit The XLab FAQs and read Detecting and avoiding malware and spyware.
See these Apple articles:
          Mac OS X Snow Leopard and malware detection
          OS X Lion- Protect your Mac from malware
          OS X Mountain Lion- Protect your Mac from malware
          About file quarantine in OS X
If you require anti-virus protection Thomas Reed recommends using Dr.Web Light from the App Store. It's free, and since it's from the App Store, it won't destabilize the system. If you prefer one of the better known commercial products, then Thomas recommends using Sophos.(Thank you to Thomas Reed for these recommendations.) If you already use Sophos, then be aware of this if you are using Mavericks: OS X Mavericks- Sophos Anti-Virus on-access scanner versions 8.0 - 9.1 may cause unexpected restarts
From user Joe Bailey comes this equally useful advice:
The facts are:
1. There is no anti-malware software that can detect 100% of the malware out there.
2. There is no anti-malware that can detect anything targeting the Mac because there
     is no Mac malware in the wild, and therefore, no "signatures" to detect.
3. The very best way to prevent the most attacks is for you as the user to be aware that
     the most successful malware attacks rely on very sophisticated social engineering
     techniques preying on human avarice, ****, and fear.
4. Internet popups saying the FBI, NSA, Microsoft, your ISP has detected malware on
    your computer is intended to entice you to install their malware thinking it is a
    protection against malware.
5. Some of the anti-malware products on the market are worse than the malware
    from which they purport to protect you.
6. Be cautious where you go on the internet.
7. Only download anything from sites you know are safe.
8. Avoid links you receive in email, always be suspicious even if you get something
    you think is from a friend, but you were not expecting.
9. If there is any question in your mind, then assume it is malware.

Anti Virus program for Windows Conversion

I am planning to put VMware Fusion onto my ProMac in order to transfer many of my former PC programs. Hearing that AVG was a very good Anti virus program, I e-mailed them about which of their products I could use. They informed me that they are not compatible to Mac, even though I'd be using it for my Windows conversion program. Does anyone have any recommendations as to what anti virus program works best in protecting my Windows conversion program on a Pro Mac?
Thannks,
3D Dad

I am not clear on what you mean by your "windows conversion program". If you are using Fusion... you will be running Windows. You should use whatever antivirus program you would feel comfortable with running on any Windows machine. While AVG is not the "best" antivirus program out there, it is considered an excellent free option. I have seen many test results that show acceptable performance. Without knowing the details of the internal tests conducted by David's company, I can't say if his results would reflect those of real world use (David... I'm not questioning your results... I'm just saying that without knowing more about the test... I can't take that as being anything more than someone just saying they tested it and it didn't work).
I am very against running any Symantec products on any of my systems (and I expect many here would agree). They tend to be resource hogs and very often cause more problems than they can fix. Kaspersky is considered on of the best "pay" antivirus programs out there and it's much more friendly on your system than Symantec's Norton Antivirus:
http://www.kaspersky.com/

What is the best anti virus software to use with OS X 10.8?

What is the best anti virus software to use with OS X 10.8? Norton is slowing my iMac down and I'm constantly being bombarded by blocking messages for programs I don't recognize.
Thanks

Get rid of Norton a/k/a Symantec. It is one of the worst pieces of trash you can install on a Mac.
You do not need any additional anti-virus software than is already designed into OS X to protect your Mac against malware. I assume you paid enough for your iMac and that's part of what you paid.
If you use Windows, or are concerned about harboring viruses that target Windows, or care about friends who use Windows, then get ClamXav. It's in the App Store and it is free.
Since friends don't let friends use Windows, I have no use for it.

What is the best anti-virus, spyware etc. software

Please can anyone help me. I bought a Satellite Pro M40 laptop which is lovely and installed Norton Internet Security 2006 and Ad-aware, however, I am so paranoid since going on broadband because of Trojans and spyware invading my pc. I posted another message because I had control panel open as a shadow image in the background so did a complete re-install using Toshiba disc, now another shadow appeared when online called Padtouch_wndllabel. I hear that spyware can disguise itself as other progs. I need real basic help really as its all new to me but wonder if there are any other protective measures I can take to check if my laptop has been infected or to stop it in the future??? - without going into registry files etc?? Maybe I should post this under Satellite Pro forum would that be best??
Thanks in advance for any advice you can give.
Manderz

Hi Manderz,
I hope that you enjoy using your new laptop! With regard to the "best" antivirus and anti-spyware software, there is unfortunately no one answer. Obviously, having any protection is better than none at all, so the Norton security suite you have installed is a very good start indeed.
Personally, I use a number of anti-spyware programs, including Ad-aware SE, SpyBot Search & Destroy, and Microsoft's own Windows Defender. All of these should be happy running alongside each other but it is very important that you only have one anti-virus program as this needs "control" over the dataflow in and out of your computer. Running more than one normally leads to each program battling against the other, usuallymaking the computer unusable in the process.
The importnant thing to remember with any of these programs is that regular updates and system scans are the key to catching any natsy visitors - try once per week to start and see how you go from there.
The other "top tip" is just being sensible with what you are doing on the internet: clicking "yes" on all those adverts or agreeing to anything you have not read or understood is inviting spyware onto your system.
I hope this does not sound too baffling or put you off using your new computer to its full potential - if you are unsure, just post away on the forums. There is no such thing as a dumb question if it going to save you frustration and worry.
Good luck, enjoy, and I hope this has been some help....

With the recent amount of publicity of macs being targeted with viruses, it recommended to install an anti-virus program such as kaspersky

Is the mac mini safe against virus attacks or do I need to install a anti-virus program such as kaspersky. I normally check for updates and all my equipment religiously, can some please advise.
Thanks
rachealfromva

"Viruses" have not been the real issue on Macs. The real issues
have been malware and trojans. In these cases, the user is most
likely lured into believing that they must download certain software
and the user actively accepts it. The other case is users that try to
beat the system by downloading software from "warez" sites trying
to get out of paying for software. Torrent sites are also a favorite target
for trojans and malware as well.
The best defense against these sort of attacks is:
-If you didn't request it, don't accept it.
-If a site claims that you must download an upgrade
for a polpular plugin, Adobe Flash for example, go to
the plugin/software vendors site and verify that you
are not up to date and get it there.
-Only download and install software directly from vendor
sites and only from reputable vendors.
The one reason for AV software would be to check mail
that you may forward to Windows machines so as not
to affect them. And again, as far as mail, if it is unsolicited,
trash and delete and don't open any attachments or links.

Do I need an anti-virus program on a MacBook?

I'm a brand new MacBook user. Just bought the 13-inch aluminum body version from Club Mac and it was delivered yesterday. The notebook is actually for my wife to be able to use while she's recovering from knee surgery in a couple of weeks and I thought it was time to branch our family out from PC's and Windows. So I'm setting up the MacBook for her to be able to use it...and for our family to get more literate on a Mac and it looks great! My question is do I need an anti-virus program and if so, which is a good one recommended by Mac users? NOTE: because my wife is familiar with Windows, I had XP service pack 3 installed and have VM Ware Fusion onboard to be able to run both Windows and Leopard for her convenience and to assist us. So there MAY be some Windows use on this MacBook, at least at first. All responses, replies, suggestions, welcome. THANK YOU.

Do You Need Anti-Virus Protection for Your Mac?
According to Rich Mogull's article, Should Mac Users Run Antivirus Software?,
"The reality is that today the Mac platform is relatively safe. There are hundreds of thousands of viruses and other malicious software programs floating around for Windows, but less than 200 are known to target the Mac, and many of those are aimed at versions of the Mac OS prior to Mac OS X (and thus have no effect on a modern Mac).
It's not that Mac OS X is inherently more secure against viruses than current versions of Windows (although it was clearly more secure than Windows prior to XP SP2); the numerous vulnerabilities reported and patched in recent years are just as exploitable as their Windows equivalents. But most security experts agree that malicious software these days is driven by financial incentives, and it's far more profitable to target the most dominant platform."
Mr. Mogull is a computer security expert. I recommend reading the entire article as it is quite informative.
For additional information on viruses, trojans, and spyware visit The XLab FAQs and read the FAQs on viruses and spyware.

Best anti virus program to purchase

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