This Mac security application offers a quick scan that looks for viruses in probable places, and a full one that takes more time, but checks the entire system. If you don’t mind spending a few bucks on affordable software, Zap Antivirus is also a worthy download. It’s certainly not a deciding factor when considering the non-existent price and its comprehensive antivirus engine, but it’s an unfortunate downside. Unlike most antiviruses in our roundup, Avira is combined with a moderately long installation and update process that goes hand in hand with intensive use of system resources by the software. It has a lot of resources, but is capable enough if you are looking for automation, scan history, and other advanced features. Virus definitions are also updated in a timely manner, regardless of how long initial updates take to complete. You will need to obtain the premium version of $ 60 dollars to maintain these functions. The free version includes ransomware monitoring, webcam protection, and live support options, but all of these expire after thirty days. It is one of the most independent antivirus applications on the market, and as such, it is among the best.

Malware definitions are also constantly updated, ensuring the app is never left without the latest warning of potential threats. Starting a full system scan can be done directly from the top of the main menu, and you can quickly set exemptions in the easily navigable menus. Although, the application tends to scan slower than most, it is quite light and performs vital background tasks discreetly, while hardly using your system resources.ĭespite its robust feature set, Sophos manages to bundle all of this functionality into one compact interface. The software incorporates real-time protection features that quarantine unknown files that exhibit suspicious behavior. It has custom on-demand and scheduled scans for specific files, folders, and drives, along with additional tools to remove and quarantine any file that Sophos considers a potential threat. When you’re at a point between the need and the excess, Sophos offers all the basic utilities you expect from a quality antivirus and much more. Users have the option to opt out of sharing their data. If privacy is particularly important to you, you may want to consider recent reports that Avast collects and sells its customers’ web browsing data.Īlthough Avast admits doing so, the company also maintains that it does not collect “personally identifiable information”, including name, email address, or contact details. However, neither is necessary to detect and remove malware, so be careful when installing them if you don’t want them. The free version offers to install two other applications at installation: Avast Internet Security for $ 30 a year and Avast SecureLine VPN for $ 60 a year.

Top free antivirus 2018 for mac