Virtual PC, Windows & virus protection

I hope I'm not repeating a question, but I've done a lot of searching and haven't seen it yet...
I've installed Virtual PC 7.0.1 w/Windows XP Home. If I understand what I read at Mactopia, I shouldn't have to worry about viruses and such on the Mac side of things, but the Windows side could be open to the typical problems.
So I attempted to install and use the trial version of Panda Titanium 2006 virus software. When it's intalled I start to have all sorts of issues, from error messages re: things not initializing properly to Windows shutting itself down. I thought maybe the Windows firewall being turned on was intefering, so I turned it off and reinstalled the virus software and had the same problems. I have uninstalled the Panda software.
Is there a recommended virus software that will run more smoothly on Windows XP through Virtual PC? Or should I just try to count on the security updates from Windows and the Windows firewall. Seems risky to me. But I don't want to waste time trying out who knows how many different virus softwares looking for one that runs ok.

Hi.
To my experience, any product from F-Secure http://www.f-secure.com/ is a safe bet on any Wintel machine, and they will also work well on a Mac running Windows XP via Boot Camp, or emulating Windows XP with VirtualPC. Together with Kasperky's, all of their products do well in tests compared to other anti-virus programs. I've tried "F-Secure Client Security 6.01" on an iMac G5 (using VirtualPC) and on a Mac mini Intel Core Duo (using Boot Camp) and it works like a charm. F-Secure Client Security is a corporate solution; their "F-Secure Internet Security 2006" is intended for home users, and should also work fine. Both these products include an anti-viral solution as well as a good firewall; if for some reason you feel you don't need the firewall you might try "F-Secure Anti-Virus 2006". Btw, I'm ~not~ related to F-Secure in any way...
I would stay clear of any anti-virus program from Panda (simply because they don't find all that many viruses...) or from Symantec (because they use too much system resources, making VirtualPC even slower).
It's often said that there aren't any viruses that run under Mac OS X, and as far as I know that's correct. There are however a few Trojans around that can be troublesome, and most certainly there will be more in the future. Hence, until now using anti-virus programs under Mac OS X has been optional, but that can soon change...
Mac mini 1,66 GHz Intel Core Duo Mac OS X (10.4.6) Been an active Mac user since 1984.

Similar Messages

How to install when I keep getting the following massage on windows 7 64 bit with or with firewall on and vwith or with virus protection on here is post This installation package could net be opened verify that the package exist and that you can access

how to install when I keep getting the following massage on windows 7 64 bit with or with firewall on and with or with virus protection on here is post " This installation package could net be opened verify that the package exist and that you can access" same when trying to install quicktime

I'd first try downloading an installer from the Apple website using a different web browser:
http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/
If you use Firefox instead of IE for the download (or vice versa), do you get a working installer?

Do I need to install virus protection for the windows portion of the partitioned hard drive on the MacBook Pro?

Do I need to install virus protection for the windows portion of the partitioned hard drive on the MacBook Pro?

You are running Windows, so yes. I like Microsoft's built in protection and how 8.1 is 'hardened' but I also install Malwarebytes. I will not use Kaspersky anymore. But you do need something. And 8.1 is more secure than prior versions definitely but there were some major zero-day security updates on this month's "Patch Tuesday."
The forum for you is "Boot Camp" and this if you look above: Communities / Desktop / Mac Pro is not for MacBook Pro
MacBook Pro
Boot Camp

Free virus protection for windows side of Mac

Can anyone tell me if I need virus protection for the windows side of my Mac? If so is there any reliable ones that are free?

>If so is there any reliable ones that are free?
It would probably be a good idea to study various tests in computer magazines in order to find the anti-virus program (free or not) that best meets your requirements.
Just as one example (not a recommendation), for earlier versions of Windows, Microsoft Security Essentials is available for download free of charge. Windows 8.x editions include a program called Windows Defender.
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security-essentials-download
Regarding possible Windows versions, see also:
http://support.apple.com/kb/ht5634
Jan

Virus protection for osx - windows user

Hello
I am a mac user working in a predominantly windows based office, i use my personal macbook in the office quite alot but often need to transfer files from various windows machines to my laptop. The lab has recently had some problems with viruses, while i am aware that these are very unlikely to pose a risk to my system i would like to know that i was not passing them around via flash drives etc. So my question is this, can anyone recommend a good (preferably free if its decent) antivirus for osx?

while i am aware that these are very unlikely to pose a risk to my system
It's impossible for them to pose a risk to your system. There are no Mac viruses, those will all be Windows viruses, so unless you're also running Windows, you have nothing to worry about. (If you are running Windows on your Mac, note that you should still have Windows antivirus software installed there.)
i would like to know that i was not passing them around via flash drives
Perfectly reasonable. For that purpose, I would second the Giant's recommendation for clamXav.

Virus Protection using Parallels?

Please excuse me if I have posted this in the wrong area. I am brand new to the world of Mac. I will be running MS XP under Parallels on my new MacBook for a few applications that have no Mac alternatives. I have read quite a bit that virus protection is not really necessary using OS X; my question is this: Will running XP on Parallels make my Mac vulnerable to more viruses? If it makes a difference, this computer will be on a network that has both Mac and PC users. Thanks.

Should you run AV software with Parallels? If you are running Windows in it, absolutely. When running WinXP in Parallels you are running Windows and are at risk for adware and malware.
Is your Mac at risk due to this? It can be but it need not be, that depends on how you use Parallels. Parallels creates a disk image and runs the virtualized installation from that disk image. Think of a big yard with a fenced in section. The yard is your Mac drive and the fenced in section is your Windows installation in Parallels. Without a gate, nothing can get it or out.
Note I said without a gate. Parallels has the option of letting Windows share Mac folders. This is a convenient way to share information between Mac and Windows and it constitutes a gate. I create websites using Mac tools but before uploading them, I need to verify that they look correct in MS Exploder 5, 6, and 7. So I share the WebSites folder I have my user directory with my Parallels WinXP installation allowing me to load my websites in my Windows browsers. That means Windows can read and write to that folder and constitutes a potential danger to my Mac installation.
So, use anti-malware software with Parallels? Yes. Worry that it might cause trouble for your Mac? A little. BTW, many ISP's offer free WIndows software. Check yours out.

Is there a virus protection software available for the ipad 2?

IS there any form of virus protection softward available for the ipad 2? Have seen AVG etc for ipad 2 talked about.

It's not strictly correct to say there are no viruses or to be more accurate 'malware' for i-devices as there are
There isn't. Provide links/proof if there are.
If you really are an admin for McAfee then you should know what a virus is, and that there are none for iOS. If there were a virus for iOS it would be all over the news. It is also true to say there is no malware for stock iOS devices. If you've jailbroken your device, then maybe so, but you've purposefully put yourself at risk.
hence the last 2 iOS updates which were patching various vulnerabilities.
Yes, just like any OS, there have been vulnerabilities that, potentially, could be used for malware purposes, but iOS has been available for over 4 years and still not one virus or malware breakout. If you knew anything about the way iOS works, and how apps get approved, installed and run, you would know why a virus is virtually impossible, and even a trojan is very unlikely.
Apple has a policy of never discussing security issues as they like to pretend that their products are totally immune, but they aren't.
Like lots of companies, Apple don't discuss security vulnerabilities BEFORE they are fixed, because that would be irresponsible and make it easier for hackers to exploit. Apple have never pretended their products are totally immune. Use your brain, if Apple thought their products were immune, why would they release regular security updates?
Companies like McAfee make money out of spreading FUD and making people believe they have to fork out lots of money for so-called "protection" that in most cases they don't need and doesn't work for unknown issues anyway. And now they're trying to prey on uninformed Windows users, who after years of being subjected to the real threat of viruses and malware now think they need the same for iOS devices.

Virus protection for my mac?

Is it necessary?

Nope.
Caveat - if you also run windows, via bootcamp or a virtual machine, the installation of Windows still needs AV and malware protection as windows itself would be vulnerable, but OS X is still essentially virus free (only malware that required a user to actively download and install it has been an issue in recent memory).
Also, it is possible for your Mac to spread email viruses if your forward or send on an email with a windows virus in it (your machine itself will be unaffected by the virus, but you can still spread it if you send that infected email on to someone). Because of that some companies do make people run AV on their Mac, to scan emails and attachments and try to stop further spread of infected files.

What is apple's Virus protection software?

What is the virus protection software that Apple uses?? Do I need to get virus software?? What is a good program to use if I do need to get virus protection?
Thanks,
Thomas8902

OS X already includes everything it needs to protect itself from viruses and malware. Keep it that way with software updates from Apple.
Gatekeeper and OS X's file quarantine features are described in the following:
OS X About Gatekeeper
About file quarantine in OS X
What is a good program to use if I do need to get virus protection?
You should first explain your reasons for perceiving such a need. Everyone's needs are different, but I have not found justification for such a need, ever, despite having many Macs for many years in many locations, some of which are connected and running 24/7/365 using nothing other than what Apple has included for the past several OS X versions.
Most commercial programs claiming to "protect" or "clean" your Mac are essentially malware themselves. The most popular examples account for the vast majority of Mac problems reported on this site. The perception of need for "virus protection" is all too often based on rumor, scare tactics, uninformed and barely literate bloggers, popular "news" outlets, phony "top ten" review sites, and so on. They capitalize on the vulnerability of millions of former PC users inured to the need for "virus protection". It's a virtually limitless market, and a highly successful one.
What users really need, but all too often neglect, is a backup strategy appropriate for the work they do. OS X already includes automatic backup software. It's free, tightly integrated with OS X, and works well. All you have to do is use it. It's heartbreaking to inform a user who neglects that need but trashes a Mac containing their music library, or decades worth of family photos, or other irreplaceable documents and files - by installing garbage software that they're simply out of luck, but it happens with disturbing regularity.
Educate yourself, then, decide for yourself.
A much better question is "how should I protect my Mac":
Never install any product that claims to "speed up", "clean up", "optimize", or "accelerate" your Mac. Without exception, they will do the opposite.
Never install pirated or "cracked" software, software obtained from dubious websites, or other questionable sources. Illegally obtained software is almost certain to contain malware.
Don’t supply your password in response to a popup window requesting it, unless you know what it is and the reason your credentials are required.
Don’t open email attachments from email addresses that you do not recognize, or click links contained in an email:
Most of these are scams that direct you to fraudulent sites that attempt to convince you to disclose personal information.
Such "phishing" attempts are the 21st century equivalent of a social exploit that has existed since the dawn of civilization. Don’t fall for it.
Apple will never ask you to reveal personal information in an email. If you receive an unexpected email from Apple saying your account will be closed unless you take immediate action, just ignore it. If your iTunes or App Store account becomes disabled for valid reasons, you will know when you try to buy something or log in to this support site, and are unable to.
Don’t install browser extensions unless you understand their purpose. Go to the Safari menu > Preferences > Extensions. If you see any extensions that you do not recognize or understand, simply click the Uninstall button and they will be gone.
Don’t install Java unless you are certain that you need it:
Java, a non-Apple product, is a potential vector for malware. If you are required to use Java, be mindful of that possibility.
Disable Java in Safari > Preferences > Security.
Despite its name JavaScript is unrelated to Java. No malware can infect your Mac through JavaScript. It’s OK to leave it enabled.
Block browser popups: Safari menu > Preferences > Security > and check "Block popup windows":
Popup windows are useful and required for some websites, but popups have devolved to become a common means to deliver targeted advertising that you probably do not want.
Popups themselves cannot infect your Mac, but many contain resource-hungry code that will slow down Internet browsing.
If you ever see a popup indicating it detected registry errors, that your Mac is infected with some ick, or that you won some prize, it is 100% fraudulent. Ignore it.
Ignore hyperventilating popular media outlets that thrive by promoting fear and discord with entertainment products arrogantly presented as "news". Learn what real threats actually exist and how to arm yourself against them:
The most serious threat to your data security is phishing. To date, most of these attempts have been pathetic and are easily recognized, but that is likely to change in the future as criminals become more clever.
OS X viruses do not exist, but intentionally malicious or poorly written code, created by either nefarious or inept individuals, is nothing new.
Never install something without first knowing what it is, what it does, how it works, and how to get rid of it when you don’t want it any more.
If you elect to use "anti-virus" software, familiarize yourself with its limitations and potential to cause adverse effects, and apply the principle immediately preceding this one.
Most such utilities will only slow down and destabilize your Mac while they look for viruses that do not exist, conveying no benefit whatsoever - other than to make you "feel good" about security, when you should actually be exercising sound judgment, derived from accurate knowledge, based on verifiable facts.
Do install updates from Apple as they become available. No one knows more about Macs and how to protect them than the company that builds them.
Summary: Use common sense and caution when you use your Mac, just like you would in any social context. There is no product, utility, or magic talisman that can protect you from all the evils of mankind.

Cannot uninstall virus protection-- Invisible files?

My early 2008 MacBook Pro (10.6.8) has been running slow so I wanted to do a full virus scan. I see too many beach balls, scrolling pauses, and briefly my mouse buttons were misbehaving. It has 53 GB free on a */- 250 GB HD. Initially I had partitioned it, but ran out of space so I removed the second partition and now have just one big one.
I did a search for Sophos Antivirus, which has been on this machine since 2008 when I was staff/student. The search produced folders and files and then the search hung, so I quit it and restarted the machine, which generally is on all the time. I probably restart once a week to get rid of temporary files.
After this last restart, EVERY reference to Sophos has disappeared. No installer, no uninstaller, no virus definitions. I tried to run the Sophos home edition installer and it says there is antivirus software on the HD. I followed their directions, attempting to remove first Sophos 8 and then Sophos 9, and both return the message that there is no Sophos installed. But when I try to install the home edition, it says there already is virus protection installed. I had installed Clam, ran it with no errors or indication of a problem yesterday. Clam says to trash it in order to delete it, so I did. I haven't used any other antivirus besides Sophos and the more recent Clam. If there is virus protection, it must be invisible to me.
Since this MacBook is so old, I can't get help from Apple, and the Sophos directions indicate that I should download and run the uninstallers. So I'm stuck with a slow HD with no virus or malware protection. Disk Utility and TechTool (both run from the HD) indicate no problems.
The idea that the institutional version of the software uninstalled "by itself" baffles Sophos tech support as well as me.
Anybody have a directional idea? Thanks for considering this strange issue.

I ran the report but don't see the word "virus" in anything. I could uninstall VMWare since I've removed the Windows partition. The Samsung links are for my tablet. Perhaps something leaps out at you patient folks? Thanks for pursuing this with me.
Problem description:
looking for leftover antivirus software components so that I can do a clean install.
EtreCheck version: 2.1.8 (121)
Report generated March 31, 2015 9:26:43 AM PDT
Download EtreCheck from http://etresoft.com/etrecheck
Click the [Click for support] links for help with non-Apple products.
Click the [Click for details] links for more information about that line.
Hardware Information: ℹ️
    MacBook Pro (15-inch 2.4/2.2GHz) (Verified)
    MacBook Pro - model: MacBookPro3,1
    1 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo CPU: 2-core
    2 GB RAM
        BANK 0/DIMM0
            1 GB DDR2 SDRAM 667 MHz ok
        BANK 1/DIMM1
            1 GB DDR2 SDRAM 667 MHz ok
    Bluetooth: Old - Handoff/Airdrop2 not supported
    Wireless: en1: 802.11 a/b/g/n
    Battery Health: Normal - Cycle count 5
Video Information: ℹ️
    GeForce 8600M GT     - VRAM: 256 MB
        Color LCD 1280 x 800
        spdisplays_display_connector
System Software: ℹ️
    Mac OS X 10.6.8 (10K549) - Time since boot: 11:27:59
Disk Information: ℹ️
    FUJITSU MHW2160BHPL disk0 : (149.05 GB)
        - (disk0s1) <not mounted> : 210 MB
        I'm a Mac (disk0s2) / : 159.70 GB (56.21 GB free)
USB Information: ℹ️
    Apple Inc. Built-in iSight
    Apple Computer Apple Internal Keyboard / Trackpad
    Apple Computer, Inc. IR Receiver
    Apple Inc. Bluetooth USB Host Controller
    Logitech USB Receiver
Kernel Extensions: ℹ️
        /Applications/Kies.app
    [not loaded]    com.devguru.driver.SamsungACMControl (1.2.58 - SDK 10.6) [Click for support]
    [not loaded]    com.devguru.driver.SamsungACMData (1.2.58 - SDK 10.6) [Click for support]
    [not loaded]    com.devguru.driver.SamsungComposite (1.2.58 - SDK 10.6) [Click for support]
    [not loaded]    com.devguru.driver.SamsungMTP (1.2.58 - SDK 10.5) [Click for support]
    [not loaded]    com.devguru.driver.SamsungSerial (1.2.58 - SDK 10.6) [Click for support]
        /Applications/VMware Fusion.app
    [loaded]    com.vmware.kext.vmci (2.0.8) [Click for support]
    [loaded]    com.vmware.kext.vmioplug (2.0.8) [Click for support]
    [loaded]    com.vmware.kext.vmnet (2.0.8) [Click for support]
    [loaded]    com.vmware.kext.vmx86 (2.0.8) [Click for support]
        /System/Library/Extensions
    [loaded]    com.Logitech.Control Center.HID Driver (3.4.0 - SDK 10.0) [Click for support]
    [loaded]    com.Logitech.Unifying.HID Driver (1.2.0 - SDK 10.0) [Click for support]
Problem System Launch Daemons: ℹ️
    [not loaded]    org.samba.winbindd.plist [Click for support]
Launch Agents: ℹ️
    [running]    com.Affinegy.InstaLANa.plist [Click for support]
    [running]    com.amazon.sendtokindle.launcher.plist [Click for support]
    [loaded]    com.coupons.coupond.plist [Click for support]
    [loaded]    com.google.keystone.agent.plist [Click for support]
    [running]    com.Logitech.Control Center.Daemon.plist [Click for support]
Launch Daemons: ℹ️
    [loaded]    com.adobe.fpsaud.plist [Click for support]
    [unknown]    com.Affinegy.InstaLANd.plist [Click for support]
    [loaded]    com.google.keystone.daemon.plist [Click for support]
    [loaded]    com.microsoft.office.licensing.helper.plist [Click for support]
    [loaded]    com.vmware.launchd.vmware.plist [Click for support]
User Launch Agents: ℹ️
    [loaded]    com.adobe.ARM.[...].plist [Click for support]
    [loaded]    com.facebook.videochat.[redacted].plist [Click for support]
User Login Items: ℹ️
    uHD-Agent    UNKNOWN (missing value)
    GrowlMenu    UNKNOWN (missing value)
    Android File Transfer Agent    Application (/Users/[redacted]/Library/Application Support/Google/Android File Transfer/Android File Transfer Agent.app)
    Dropbox    Application (/Applications/Dropbox.app)
    TWC-WiFi Menu    Application (/Applications/TWC/TWC-WiFi.app/Contents/Resources/TWC-WiFi Menu.app)
    KiesAgent    Application Hidden (/Applications/Kies.app/Contents/MacOS/KiesAgent.app)
    KiesViaWiFiAgent    Application Hidden (/Applications/Kies.app/Contents/MacOS/KiesViaWiFiAgent.app)
    fuspredownloader    Application Hidden (/Users/[redacted]/Library/Application Support/.FUS/fuspredownloader.app)
Internet Plug-ins: ℹ️
    Unity Web Player: Version: UnityPlayer version 4.3.1f1 - SDK 10.6 [Click for support]
    Flip4Mac WMV Plugin: Version: 2.4.4.2 [Click for support]
    Silverlight: Version: 5.1.30514.0 - SDK 10.6 [Click for support]
    FlashPlayer-10.6: Version: 17.0.0.134 - SDK 10.6 [Click for support]
    Flash Player: Version: 17.0.0.134 - SDK 10.6 [Click for support]
    QuickTime Plugin: Version: 7.6.6
    AmazonMP3DownloaderPlugin: Version: AmazonMP3DownloaderPlugin 1.0.16 [Click for support]
    SharePointBrowserPlugin: Version: 14.4.8 - SDK 10.6 [Click for support]
    AdobePDFViewer: Version: 9.5.5 [Click for support]
    CouponPrinter-FireFox_v2: Version: 5.0.3 - SDK 10.6 [Click for support]
    Myriad Music Plugin: Version: 5.6.2j [Click for support]
    iPhotoPhotocast: Version: 7.0
    JavaAppletPlugin: Version: 13.9.8 - SDK 10.6 Check version
User internet Plug-ins: ℹ️
    BlueStacks Install Detector: Version: Unknown
    Move_Media_Player: Version: npmnqmp 071303000006 [Click for support]
    WebEx64: Version: 1.0 - SDK 10.5 [Click for support]
Safari Extensions: ℹ️
    Nielsen NetSight
Audio Plug-ins: ℹ️
    iSightAudio: Version: 7.6.6
3rd Party Preference Panes: ℹ️
    Flash Player [Click for support]
    Flip4Mac WMV [Click for support]
    Logitech Control Center [Click for support]
    MacFUSE [Click for support]
Time Machine: ℹ️
    Time Machine information requires OS X 10.7 "Lion" or later.
Top Processes by CPU: ℹ️
        33%    Google Chrome
        13%    Google Chrome Helper NP
         3%    WindowServer
         1%    Dropbox
         0%    mds
Top Processes by Memory: ℹ️
    170 MB    Google Chrome
    68 MB    Google Chrome Helper
    64 MB    Dropbox
    58 MB    mds
    49 MB    Finder
Virtual Memory Information: ℹ️
    61 MB    Free RAM
    1.26 GB    Active RAM
    596 MB    Inactive RAM
    228 MB    Wired RAM
    1.05 GB    Page-ins
    48 MB    Page-outs
Diagnostics Information: ℹ️
    Mar 31, 2015, 01:57:21 AM    /Users/[redacted]/Library/Logs/DiagnosticReports/Snood_2015-03-31-015721_[redac ted].crash
    Mar 30, 2015, 08:01:25 PM    /Library/Logs/DiagnosticReports/TWC-WiFi Daemon_2015-03-30-200125_[redacted].crash
    Mar 30, 2015, 08:01:25 PM    /Library/Logs/CrashReporter/TWC-WiFi Daemon_2015-03-30-200125_[redacted].crash
    Mar 30, 2015, 09:56:47 PM    Self test - passed

I am getting an error message that my network connection has timed out. while trying to update my iPhone on iTunes. Has anyone found a solution? I was given some advice about turning off my firewall and/or virus protection but am nervous about doing that.

I get a message that my network connection has timed out while trying to update my iPhone on iTunes. Has anyone else had that problem and if so what solutions have you found? I was told to turn off my firewall and/or virus protection while updating but am nervous about doing that for obvious reasons. I'm also disgusted with Apple not providing free tech support.

See this article about the ports that have to be open during the update process. iTunes has to contact Apple during the download. iTunes for Windows: Troubleshooting security software issues

What virus protection should i download for my macbook pro

i just got my macbook pro and want to know what virus protection program should i download for free

This comment applies to malicious software ("malware") that's installed unwittingly by the victim of a network attack. It does not apply to software, such as keystroke loggers, that may be installed deliberately by an attacker who has hands-on access to the victim's computer. That threat is in a different category, and there's no easy way to defend against it. If you have reason to suspect that you're the target of such an attack, you need expert help.
All versions of OS X since 10.6.7 have been able to detect known Mac malware in downloaded files. The recognition database is automatically updated once a day; however, you shouldn't rely on it, because the attackers are always at least a day ahead of the defenders. In most cases, there’s no benefit from any other automated protection against malware.
Starting with OS X 10.7.5, there is another layer of built-in malware protection, designated "Gatekeeper" by Apple. By default, applications that are downloaded from the network will only run if they're digitally signed by a developer with a certificate issued by Apple. Applications certified in this way haven't actually been tested by Apple (unless they come from the Mac App Store), but you can be sure that they haven't been modified by anyone other than the developer, and his identity is known, so he could be held responsible if he knowingly released malware. For most practical purposes, applications recognized by Gatekeeper as signed can be considered safe. Note, however, that there are some caveats concerning Gatekeeper:
It doesn't apply to software that comes packaged as an installer. Treat all third-party installers with caution.
It can be disabled or overridden by the user.
It can be bypassed by some third-party networking software, such as BitTorrent clients and Java applets (see below.)
It only applies to applications downloaded from the network. Software installed from a CD or other media is not checked.
For more information about Gatekeeper, see this Apple Support article.
Notwithstanding the above, the most effective defense against malware attacks is your own intelligence. All known malware on the Internet that affects a fully-updated installation of OS X 10.6 or later takes the form of so-called "trojan horses," which can only have an effect if the victim is duped into running them. If you're smarter than the malware attacker thinks you are, you won't be duped. That means, primarily, that you never install software from an untrustworthy source. How do you know a source is untrustworthy?
Any website that prompts you to install a “codec,” “plug-in,” or “certificate” that comes from that same site, or an unknown one, is untrustworthy.
A web operator who tells you that you have a “virus,” or that anything else is wrong with your computer, or that you have won a prize in a contest you never entered, is trying to commit a crime with you as the victim. [Some reputable websites did legitimately warn users who were infected with the "DNSChanger" malware. That exception to this rule no longer applies.]
“Cracked” copies of commercial software downloaded from a bittorrent are likely to be infected.
Software with a corporate brand, such as Adobe Flash Player, must be downloaded directly from the developer’s website. No intermediary is acceptable.
Java on the network (not to be confused with JavaScript, to which it's not related) is always a potential weak spot in the security of any operating system. If Java is not installed, don't install it unless you really need it. If it is installed, you should disable it (not JavaScript) in your web browsers. Few websites have Java content nowadays, so you won’t be missing much. This setting is mandatory in OS X 10.5.8 or earlier, because Java in those obsolete versions has known security flaws that make it unsafe to use on the Internet. The flaws will never be fixed. Regardless of version, experience has shown that Java can never be fully trusted, even if no vulnerabilities are publicly known at the moment.
Follow these guidelines, and you’ll be as safe from malware as you can reasonably be.
Never install any commercial "anti-virus" products for the Mac, as they all do more harm than good. If you need to be able to detect Windows malware in your files, use the free software ClamXav — nothing else.

Virus protection for my macbook pro

Does anybody know of a good Virus protection for my macbook pro? Some people say i dont need one is that true? I was hoping to get a cheap/reasonable priced protection for a lil extra help. Im worried about my laptop getting a virus.

Thomas A Reed wrote:
sigh. Discussions about anti-virus software here are a hot-button topic, and often cause virtual fistfights. Not your fault, of course, but now there's a lot of confusing information being thrown back and forth here. Let me try to clear the air a bit.
First, regarding ClamXav, Kappy's link is fine, but I would refer you straight to the official ClamXav site rather than the MacUpdate page:
http://www.clamxav.com
There is another ClamXav site, ending in .org, that is fake. It's not related to the actual ClamXav. Don't go there. I'd love nothing better than to get that site taken down, but alas, that is not within my power.
I have mixed feelings about ClamXav. I like the guy who develops it, and I like the way it works... but it's not always on top of things with regard to malware definitions.
Regarding Avast, it is certainly not "the worst of the whole wretched lot" of anti-virus software. Neither is it something I would recommend highly. It has a tendency towards false positives, in my experience. Beyond that, I have not used it for a lengthy period of time, and cannot say more.
Go to my Mac Malware Guide and get the information you need to learn how to protect yourself, and then make your own educated decision about anti-virus software, based on your needs and behaviors. I have some recommendations there, and you can also take a look at the results of my testing of Mac anti-virus software. (Be sure to read the whole thing, and don't just skip straight to the results, as the results are meaningless without understanding what they mean and what they don't mean.)
With respect to your site and your basic research on the matter and limited time spent with these engines running, you have to see this from my side as well. I have over 20+ client networks that run nothing but the full licensed version of Avast with just the AV filters turned on (none of the Firewalling built into it of any kind). 2 of those clients are full Mac networks with 15+ Macs on them and they run the Mac version without issue. Their systems run at the same speed as they did without anything else on them. I also run the software myself daily an my system has no issues with slowness or anything. I have run Avast for the past 6+ years without problems with false positives or system corruptions of any kind, the same cannot be said for other platforms like McAfee and Norton who's bad signature updates have crippled entire networks. I have looked at numerous options from ESET to AVG Free and none of them have as small a footprint on the system as Avast in my professional opinion (one backed by over 15 years in the IT industry). While as of late I'll agree that the PC version of the software has had some additions to it that I don't agree with (like the newly added features of 8.0), the Mac version is still pretty basic in contrast. As such, even the PC side isn't bad, you just have to do a custom install and just exclude the additional options you don't want. Ultimately, they're adding it in there to try and protect idiot users more, but there's only so much you can do to keep people safe without piling on the security layers.
Anyway, as Thomas said... discussions about AV on Mac forums can go on for hours, but the fact remains that you run a risk with and without something on your system. Utimately it's your call to make, just be open minded and do your research instead of just taking the word of some home user of Macs with lot of points who've used these systems for over 10 years and are more proficient at protecting themselves than you are as a novice user. That is the best suggestion I can give you.

MacBook Pro and Virus protection -Mac Newbe

I have just recently switched to Apple and purchased a MacBook Pro for home use. I am somewhat lost concerning what virus protection is "the best" to run. As with PC's there seems to be several offerings. I picked a "well known" version with my PC; however, a virus(worm,spyware...something) was still able to defeat the anti-virus and mess up my OS.

The last time I used a virus scanner on Mac OS was about 12 years ago. It only produced one false warning. The threat of viruses on OS X is much, much lower than in Windows, due to the fact that there's no real working virus for OS X yet, as far as I know. There are some concept 'viruses', but they all require user interaction to install, and with the new security features in Leopard it's very likely that you will notice when something fishy is going on (e.g. your Mac warns that you're opening a program when you have double-clicked something that was supposed to be an image).
I think that at the current time, it is more useful to maintain good security practices (enable your firewall, don't download and run any 'dubious' programs, check software update regularly and install security updates immediately,) than to install a virus scanner, which will only stress your system unnecessarily.
There are some situations where it's useful to install a virus scanner in OS X, though. First, if you use Boot Camp or Parallels (but then again, it may be more useful to install a PC virus scanner in your Windows partition). Second, to detect PC viruses, so you can tell if someone's PC is infected and prevent the virus from spreading to other PCs.

Macbook air virus protection

what is a good virus protection for the macbook air?

1. This comment applies to malicious software ("malware") that's installed unwittingly by the victim of a network attack. It does not apply to software, such as keystroke loggers, that may be installed deliberately by an intruder who has hands-on access to the victim's computer. That threat is in a different category, and there's no easy way to defend against it. If you have reason to suspect that you're the target of such an attack, you need expert help.
OS X now implements three layers of built-in protection specifically against malware, not counting runtime protections such as execute disable, sandboxing, system library randomization, and address space layout randomization that may also guard against other kinds of exploits.
2. All versions of OS X since 10.6.7 have been able to detect known Mac malware in downloaded files, and to block insecure web plugins. This feature is transparent to the user, but internally Apple calls it "XProtect." The malware recognition database is automatically checked for updates once a day; however, you shouldn't rely on it, because the attackers are always at least a day ahead of the defenders.
The following caveats apply to XProtect:
It can be bypassed by some third-party networking software, such as BitTorrent clients and Java applets.
It only applies to software downloaded from the network. Software installed from a CD or other media is not checked.
3. Starting with OS X 10.7.5, there has been a second layer of built-in malware protection, designated "Gatekeeper" by Apple. By default, applications and Installer packages downloaded from the network will only run if they're digitally signed by a developer with a certificate issued by Apple. Software certified in this way hasn't necessarily been tested by Apple, but you can be reasonably sure that it hasn't been modified by anyone other than the developer. His identity is known to Apple, so he could be held legally responsible if he distributed malware. That may not mean much if the developer lives in a country with a weak legal system (see below.)
Gatekeeper doesn't depend on a database of known malware. It has, however, the same limitations as XProtect, and in addition the following:
It can easily be disabled or overridden by the user.
A malware attacker could get control of a code-signing certificate under false pretenses, or could find some other way to bypass Apple's oversight, or the oversight could fail in a particular case due to human error.
For most purposes, applications recognized by Gatekeeper as signed, including App Store products, can be considered safe. Note, however, that at least one trojan for iOS (not for OS X) was briefly distributed by a developer in Russia through the iTunes App Store. That store is under the same oversight by Apple as the Mac App Store, so the protection shouldn't be considered absolute. App Store products may prompt for access to private data, such as your contacts. Think before granting that access. OS X security is based on user input. Never click anything reflexively.
4. Starting with OS X 10.8.3, a third layer of protection has been added: a "Malware Removal Tool" (MRT). MRT runs automatically in the background when you update the OS. It checks for, and removes, malware that may have evaded the other protections via a Java exploit (see below.) MRT also runs when you install or update the Apple-supplied Java runtime (but not the Oracle runtime.) Like XProtect, MRT is presumably effective against known attacks, but maybe not against unknown attacks. It notifies you if it finds malware, but otherwise there's no user interface to MRT.
5. Beyond XProtect, Gatekeeper, and MRT, there’s no evidence of any benefit from other automated protection against malware. The first and best line of defense is always your own intelligence. With the possible exception of Java exploits, all known malware circulating on the Internet that affects a fully-updated installation of OS X 10.6 or later takes the form of so-called "trojan horses," which can only have an effect if the victim is duped into running them. The threat therefore amounts to a battle of wits between you and the malware attacker. If you're smarter than he thinks you are, you'll win.
That means, in practice, that you never use software that comes from an untrustworthy source, or that does something inherently untrustworthy. How do you know what is trustworthy?
Any website that prompts you to install a “codec,” “plug-in,” "player," "extractor," or “certificate” that comes from that same site, or an unknown one, is untrustworthy.
A web operator who tells you that you have a “virus,” or that anything else is wrong with your computer, or that you have won a prize in a contest you never entered, is trying to commit a crime with you as the victim. (Some reputable websites did legitimately warn visitors who were infected with the "DNSChanger" malware. That exception to this rule no longer applies.)
Pirated copies or "cracks" of commercial software, no matter where they come from, are unsafe.
Software of any kind downloaded from a BitTorrent or from a Usenet binary newsgroup is unsafe.
Software that purports to help you do something that's illegal or that infringes copyright, such as saving streamed audio or video for reuse without permission, is unsafe. All YouTube "downloaders" are in this category, though not all are necessarily harmful.
Software with a corporate brand, such as Adobe Flash Player, must be downloaded directly from the developer’s website. If it comes from any other source, it's unsafe.
Even signed applications should not be trusted if they do something unexpected, such as asking for permission to access your contacts or your location for no apparent reason.
6. Java on the Web (not to be confused with JavaScript, to which it's not related, despite the similarity of the names) is a weak point in the security of any system. Java is, among other things, a platform for running complex applications in a web page, on the client. That was always a bad idea, and Java's developers have proven themselves incapable of implementing it without also creating a portal for malware to enter. Past Java exploits are the closest thing there has ever been to a Windows-style virus affecting OS X. Merely loading a page with malicious Java content could be harmful.
Fortunately, client-side Java on the Web is obsolete and mostly extinct. Only a few outmoded sites still use it. Try to hasten the process of extinction by avoiding those sites, if you have a choice. Forget about playing games or other non-essential uses of Java.
Java is not included in OS X 10.7 and later. Discrete Java installers are distributed by Apple and by Oracle (the developer of Java.) Don't use either one unless you need it. Most people don't. If Java is installed, disable it — not JavaScript — in your browsers.
Regardless of version, experience has shown that Java on the Web can't be trusted. If you must use a Java applet for a task on a specific site, enable Java only for that site in Safari. Never enable Java for a public website that carries third-party advertising. Use it only on well-known, login-protected, secure websites without ads. In Safari 6 or later, you'll see a lock icon in the address bar with the abbreviation "https" when visiting a secure site.
Follow the above guidelines, and you’ll be as safe from malware as you can practically be. The rest of this comment concerns what you should not do to protect yourself from malware.
7. Never install any commercial "anti-virus" or "Internet security" products for the Mac, as they all do more harm than good, if they do any good at all. If you need to be able to detect Windows malware in your files, use the free software ClamXav — nothing else.
Why shouldn't you use commercial "anti-virus" products?
Their design is predicated on the nonexistent threat that malware may be injected at any time, anywhere in the file system. Malware is downloaded from the network; it doesn't materialize from nowhere.
In order to meet that nonexistent threat, the software modifies or duplicates low-level functions of the operating system, which is a waste of resources and a common cause of instability, bugs, and poor performance.
By modifying the operating system, the software itself may create weaknesses that could be exploited by malware attackers.
8. ClamXav doesn't have these drawbacks. That doesn't mean it's entirely safe. It may report email messages that have "phishing" links in the body, or Windows malware in attachments, as infected files, and offer to delete or move them. Doing so will corrupt the Mail database. The messages should be deleted from within the Mail application.
ClamXav is not needed, and should not be relied upon, for protection against OS X malware. It's useful only for detecting Windows malware. Windows malware can't harm you directly (unless, of course, you use Windows.) Just don't pass it on to anyone else.
A Windows malware attachment in email is usually easy to recognize. The file name will often be targeted at people who aren't very bright; for example:
♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥!!!!!!!H0TBABEZ4U!!!!!!!.AVI♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥.exe
ClamXav may be able to tell you which particular virus or trojan it is, but do you care? In practice, there's seldom a reason to use ClamXav unless a network administrator requires you to run an anti-virus application.
9. The greatest harm done by security software, in my opinion, is in its effect on human behavior. It does little or nothing to protect people from emerging threats, but if they get a false sense of security from it, they may feel free to do things that expose them to higher risk. Nothing can lessen the need for safe computing practices.
10. It seems to be a common belief that the built-in Application Firewall acts as a barrier to infection, or prevents malware from functioning. It does neither. It blocks inbound connections to certain network services you're running, such as file sharing. It's disabled by default and you should leave it that way if you're behind a router on a private home or office network. Activate it only when you're on an untrusted network, for instance a public Wi-Fi hotspot, where you don't want to provide services. Disable any services you don't use in the Sharing preference pane. All are disabled by default.

Virtual PC, Windows & virus protection

Similar Messages

Maybe you are looking for