iMac Antivirus

The necessity of using anti-virus software on your iMac is a topic of debate among Apple aficionados. Some say a Mac's built-in security features adequately protect the computer; some say third-party anti-virus software actually can be a hindrance to your Mac. Others find solace in fortifying defenses with additional anti-virus protection. No matter your stance on the topic, there are many anti-virus programs designed specifically for Macs. Depending on your situation, you may want to add a free anti-virus program with modest features, a more robust paid service or perhaps no anti-virus at all.

Free Anti-virus

Avast! is a popular anti-virus service that boosts your iMac’s defenses against spyware, viruses and malware. You also can install Avast!'s WebRep plugin to ward off phishing scams. Avast! runs in real time, rather than relying on scheduled scans.

Another notable software is ClamXav, which uses the open-source ClamAV anti-virus engine. ClamAV has deep anti-virus features but lacks a user-friendly interface. ClamXav offers that interface, letting you perform scheduled or real-time scans as well as scans for specific files, folders or your entire drive.

Subscription Anti-virus Services

KromTech’s MacKeeper is one of the top-rated Mac anti-virus programs available. The software includes 16 apps that handle a number of tasks, including virus scans, safely uninstalling apps and system backups. You can upgrade MacKeeper to include a license for the PC version of the anti-virus software and add online chat, call center support or even an Apple-certified expert to help you maintain your iMac.

Trend Micro’s Internet Security for Mac is another useful anti-virus software that offers real-time protection and security features that don’t create pop-ups and interruptions. Other notable subscription services are Bitdefender Anti-Virus for Mac and ESET Cybersecurity for Mac.

The Anti Anti-virus Argument

Macs can be hacked, but one of the biggest reasons Macs don't need anti-virus protection is because there aren't as many viruses that target them. Because the number of Apple computers pales in comparison to PCs, it literally doesn't pay for hackers to target Macs.

Moreover, some third-party anti-virus software may conflict with or hinder the Mac's built-in security features or generate pop-ups and advertising messages.

iMac's Pre-Installed Security

Because of the solid security features in your iMac, the best thing you can do to protect your computer is to run software updates whenever possible to keep built-in security features working. The Sandbox security feature creates blockades within the Apple OS. Programs simply aren’t allowed to wander and go anywhere they want on your system; this makes it hard for malicious software to impersonate or piggyback on safe programs to corrupt your system. Gatekeeper helps make sure that app downloads in the App Store don’t infect your computer, as each app goes through a rigorous approval process. Also, if you’re downloading software off the Web, Gatekeeper identifies potentially malicious developers and keeps you from installing a harmful program. The Safari browser comes with anti-phishing features and can block fraudulent websites from loading.