The 4 Best Antivirus for Mac (2025 Update)

Norton 360 Antivirus for Mac Review 2025

Norton 360 for Mac offers a comprehensive security suite accessible through its unified “My Norton” dashboard. Here’s a detailed look at its features for 2025:

Device Security

The intuitive dashboard includes Quick Scan and LiveUpdate buttons for instant system scans and updates. For advanced settings and full scans, the “Open” button provides access to all features.

Key Features

• Add Devices: Extend protection by sending a download link or using a QR code for mobile installations.
• Scan Options: Perform Quick, Full System, or File Scans to detect threats.
• LiveUpdate: Ensures up-to-date malware definitions and software.
• Clean: Identifies and removes temporary or duplicate files to free up storage.

Settings

• Protect My Mac: Customize system scans by including or excluding specific folders.
• Firewall: Configure application blocking, vulnerability protection, and network security.
• Safe Web: Blocks malicious websites via browser extensions for Safari, Chrome, and Firefox.
• Activity Logs: Tracks scans, threat detections, and firewall activity.
• Product Settings: Offers Silent Mode, Error Management, Automatic Upgrades, and Community Watch.

Anti-Malware Test Results

Norton consistently achieves a 100% detection rate in AV-Test evaluations, outperforming competitors like Avast, Avira, Bitdefender, and Kaspersky. Its reliability makes it a leader in Mac virus protection.

Dark Web Monitoring

This feature scans the dark web for your personal data and alerts you if sensitive information like bank accounts or phone numbers is compromised. Combined with LifeLock (available in the US), Norton sets the standard for identity theft protection.

Secure VPN

Norton’ unlimited VPN comes at no extra cost, encrypting your connection and masking your IP address. It supports streaming services like Netflix and torrenting but lacks advanced features such as a kill switch or split tunneling, which privacy-focused users may find in alternatives like Intego.

Password Manager

Generate, store, and auto-fill strong passwords across devices. The password vault supports fingerprint or facial recognition for seamless access.

Parental Controls

Norton’s parental controls allow families to block specific websites or apps, set screen time limits, and monitor online activity.

Pricing and Plans

• Norton Antivirus Plus: €15 / $20 – Antivirus, firewall, and password manager for 1 device.
• Norton 360 Standard: €30 / $40 – Adds VPN and dark web monitoring for 1 (EU) or 3 (US) devices.
• Norton 360 Deluxe: €35 / $50 – Includes privacy monitor, parental controls, and protection for 5 devices.
• Norton 360 Advanced: €40 – Exclusive to Europe, adds identity theft protection for 10 devices.
• Norton 360 Select + LifeLock: $99 – Available in the US, with LifeLock and coverage for 10 devices.

Is Norton 360 the Best Antivirus for Mac?

Yes, Norton 360 is a robust security suite offering anti-malware, web protection, a firewall, unlimited VPN, dark web monitoring, and more. With a 60-day money-back guarantee, it is an excellent choice for comprehensive Mac protection, including advanced features like parental controls and identity theft protection.

Intego Antivirus for Mac Review 2025

Intego is a leading cybersecurity provider specializing in macOS protection. Here’s an overview of its features and performance:

Anti-Malware (VirusBarrier)

VirusBarrier, Intego’s anti-malware tool, offers robust real-time protection and supports quick, full, and scheduled scans. It can detect and remove threats across:

• Mac, Windows, and Linux malware
• Malicious scripts
• Hacking tools and keyloggers

It also scans external devices like iPhones, iPads, and external drives and checks Apple Mail attachments for malware.

Firewall (NetBarrier)

NetBarrier is a smart firewall that adapts its settings based on your network (home, work, or public Wi-Fi), providing customized protection for internet and local connections. Its user-friendly interface makes managing firewall settings straightforward, even for non-technical users.

Backup (Personal Backup)

Intego’s Personal Backup offers an alternative to Time Machine and iCloud Drive. It allows you to back up specific files or your entire hard drive to an external device without requiring a subscription, ideal for users preferring local storage solutions.

Mac Optimizer (Washing Machine)

Washing Machine helps optimize and declutter your Mac by:

• Deleting junk files to free disk space
• Removing duplicate files
• Organizing files and sorting them into Smart Folders

This tool enhances system performance while keeping your Mac tidy.

Parental Controls (ContentBarrier)

ContentBarrier offers advanced parental controls, including:

• Blocking websites and apps by category or individually
• Recording chats, screenshots, and keystrokes
• Sending automated reports via email

Its Anti-Predator Alert notifies parents of potential online threats, using chat behavior analysis to identify risky interactions.

VPN (Privacy Protect)

Privacy Protect VPN, based on Private Internet Access (PIA), is an optional add-on offering fast speeds, strong security (no DNS or IP leaks), and a no-logs policy. It works with streaming services and supports torrenting, featuring a kill switch, split tunneling, and customizable settings.

Pricing and Plans

Intego offers three packages:

• Mac Internet Security X9 (€25): Includes VirusBarrier and NetBarrier.
• Mac Security and Performance (€27): Adds Washing Machine.
• Mac Premium Bundle X9 (€60): Includes all features, plus ContentBarrier and Personal Backup.

The Privacy Protect VPN can be added to any package for €20.

Is Intego the Best Antivirus for Mac?

Intego is a strong choice for macOS users, offering excellent malware protection, an intuitive firewall, and a powerful VPN. However, it lacks some features like a password manager and dark web monitoring, which competitors like Norton provide.

For macOS-specific security, Intego excels, but Norton may be better for multi-platform needs. Intego’s 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to try it risk-free.

Kaspersky Antivirus for Mac Review 2025

At SoftwareLab, we’ve conducted an in-depth analysis of Kaspersky Antivirus for Mac. Here’s our comprehensive review:

Protection Center

Kaspersky’s Protection Center is a central dashboard offering insights into various aspects such as license duration, active threats, real-time protection, and database status. We found the Kaspersky Security browser extension particularly impressive for its extensive web protection capabilities.

Scan Features

Kaspersky includes all standard scan types like quick, full, and scheduled scans, and uniquely offers drag-and-drop functionality for individual file or folder scans. This Apple-esque feature enhances user convenience.

Update

Regular database updates are crucial for effective malware detection. Kaspersky handles this seamlessly, both automatically and manually, ensuring the highest malware detection rates.

Privacy Features

• Webcam Block: This feature blocks all apps from accessing your webcam, adding an extra layer of privacy, though a selective block option would be more flexible.
• Website Tracking Block: This is integrated with the browser extension, allowing easy activation and deactivation.

Kaspersky’s VPN, Secure Connection, based on Hotspot Shield’s technology, is a notable addition. It’s fast, secure, and works well with Netflix and torrent clients. For unlimited VPN access, upgrading to Kaspersky Plus or Premium is necessary.

Safe Kids (Parental Controls)

Safe Kids offers basic online protection for children, with options to block specific websites and categories. The premium version expands this with features like GPS tracking and social media monitoring.

Preferences and Firewall

Preferences allow customization of tracking cookie blocking and other settings. Kaspersky’s Network Attack Blocker, while not a full-featured firewall like Norton or Intego, provides robust protection by scanning incoming traffic and blocking attacks.

Prices and Plans

Kaspersky has revamped its packages:

• Standard: Antivirus, anti-phishing, and firewall, for 1 to 5 devices.
• Plus: Adds a VPN, for 1 to 5 devices.
• Premium: Includes identity protection and parental controls, for 1 to 20 devices.

Is Kaspersky the Best Antivirus for Mac?

Kaspersky is a top-tier choice for Mac internet security, offering comprehensive anti-malware protection and a suite of web protection features.

The customizable browser extension is particularly appealing. To access the full spectrum of features, including the password manager and unlimited VPN, the Plus or Premium plans are recommended.

Kaspersky’s 30-day return policy allows users to try the service risk-free.

Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac Review 2025

Bitdefender remains a top contender in the antivirus market, and its Mac version mirrors the sleek, intuitive design of its Windows counterpart. The interface features a left-hand menu with seven core sections, each packed with useful tools. Here’s a concise breakdown of its offerings for Mac users in 2025:

Dashboard

Quick access to five key features:

• Quick Scan: Scans vulnerable areas for malware.
• System Scan: Comprehensive scan of all files and directories.
• Protect a New Device: Add protection to other devices.
• Safe Files: Prevents ransomware from altering important files.
• Web Protection: Blocks harmful websites for safer browsing.

Protection

This section houses essential security features:

• Quick Scan/System Scan/Custom Scan: Options for fast, full, or targeted scans.
• Quarantine: Manage suspicious files by deleting or restoring them.
• Exceptions: Exclude specific files from scans.
• TrafficLight: Browser extension for phishing and malware blocking in Safari, Chrome, and Firefox.
• Safe Files: Shields key documents from unauthorized changes.
• Time Machine Protection: Protects Time Machine backups from ransomware.

Privacy

Tools to safeguard your online privacy:

• VPN: Secure, fast, and reliable; limited to 200 MB/day in the free version, with an upgrade for unlimited usage.
• Anti-Tracker: Browser extension that blocks tracking cookies in Safari, Chrome, and Firefox.

Notifications

Chronological list of security activities, including detected threats and completed scans.

My Account

Manage subscription details, expiration dates, and device settings via Bitdefender Central.

Preferences

Customize Bitdefender’s functionality:

• Bitdefender Shield: Real-time protection toggle.
• Scan Settings: Exclude certain file types or scan only modified files for efficiency.

Pricing and Plans

Bitdefender keeps it straightforward for Mac users:

• Cost: Starts at €20 (Europe) or $20 (USA).
• Features: Includes antivirus, anti-phishing, anti-tracking, and a limited VPN (200 MB/day). Upgrading to unlimited VPN incurs additional cost. Covers 1–3 Macs.

Is Bitdefender the Best Antivirus for Mac?

Bitdefender is an excellent choice for strong malware and ransomware defense but lacks some features like a firewall and password manager, which competitors like Norton offer. Its VPN limitation may also deter privacy-focused users.

For an all-in-one solution, Norton 360 stands out with better malware detection, a password manager, unlimited VPN, and extras like dark web monitoring. However, for basic protection with robust ransomware defense, Bitdefender is still a strong contender and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Antivirus software uses several methods to detect and eliminate malware:

• Signature-based detection: Scans files for unique malware code. If a match is found, it blocks or removes the threat.
  
• Heuristic analysis: Identifies new or altered malware by examining code structure and behavior, even without a known signature.
  
• Behavioral detection: Monitors program activity for suspicious behavior, such as unauthorized system changes, and blocks potential threats.
  
• Real-time protection: Continuously scans files and downloads in the background for immediate threat detection.
  
• Machine learning and AI: Leverages artificial intelligence to analyze large datasets, detecting emerging threats through pattern recognition.

For more, read our blog post on what antivirus software is.

Modern antivirus programs offer more than basic malware protection, incorporating essential features like:

• Anti-phishing protection: Shields against fraudulent websites and emails that target personal information, such as passwords and credit card details.
• Firewall: Controls network traffic, blocking unauthorized access to your device.
• Password manager: Encrypts and organizes your passwords for secure account management.
• VPN (Virtual Private Network): Secures your internet connection and preserves anonymity online.
• Identity theft protection: Tracks personal data (e.g., Social Security numbers, bank accounts) for suspicious activity alerts.
• Parental controls: Restricts children’s online access to ensure safer browsing.

Together, these features provide robust defense against diverse cybersecurity threats, keeping you secure in a connected world.

Antivirus software for Mac can protect you from a variety of malware threats, including:

• Adware: Unwanted software that displays intrusive ads or redirects your browser to advertising websites.
• PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs): Programs that may not be harmful but are often bundled with other software and can slow down your system or compromise your privacy.
• Ransomware: Malicious software that encrypts your files and demands a ransom for their release.
• Rootkits: Hidden malware that gives attackers control over your system while avoiding detection.
• Spyware: Software that secretly monitors your activity and steals sensitive information, like passwords or browsing habits.
• Trojans: Malicious programs disguised as legitimate software that give attackers access to your system.
• Viruses: Code that replicates itself and spreads to other files, often causing damage to your system.
• Worms: Malware that spreads across networks by exploiting vulnerabilities, often causing widespread disruption.

In addition to malware, modern antivirus suites offer anti-phishing, firewall, password manager, VPN, identity theft protection, and parental control tools to protect users from a wide range of cyber threats.

While antivirus software for Mac provides strong protection against many types of malware, it has limitations.

• Social engineering attacks: Antivirus can’t protect you from tactics like phishing, where cybercriminals manipulate you into giving away sensitive information. These attacks rely on human error rather than malicious software.
• Zero-day attacks: Antivirus software may not always detect brand-new, previously unknown vulnerabilities, known as zero-day threats. While some advanced antivirus tools use heuristics and behavior analysis to catch these, detection isn’t always guaranteed.

To stay safe, it’s important to combine antivirus with cautious online behavior and regular software updates.

macOS includes several built-in security features aimed at protecting your device from malware and unauthorized access.

Built-in macOS Security Features:

• XProtect: A signature-based antivirus that scans for known malware. While effective against identified threats, it may miss new or sophisticated malware.
• Gatekeeper: Ensures apps are from trusted sources, but it’s not foolproof, as some malicious software can bypass this protection.
• FileVault: Encrypts your Mac’s hard drive to secure data if the device is lost or stolen, though it doesn’t guard against online threats.
• Sandboxing: Restricts app actions and resource access to prevent malicious software from harming your system or stealing data.
• Firewall: Blocks unauthorized incoming network traffic to enhance security.

While effective, these features have limitations and don’t cover certain advanced protections available through third-party solutions.

While the security tools in macOS provide a solid foundation, they may not offer comprehensive protection, particularly against modern, evolving threats.

Security features missing in macOS:

• Cross-OS Password Manager: Stores and generates strong passwords across platforms (macOS, Windows, Android).
• VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts internet connections to safeguard data and privacy, especially on public Wi-Fi.
• Identity Theft Protection: Monitors personal data breaches, alerting you if sensitive information is compromised.
• Parental Controls: Enables content monitoring and restrictions for safer internet usage by children.

macOS security tools provide a robust starting point but fall short of the comprehensive protection offered by third-party antivirus suites.

AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) will make cybercrime more dangerous in 2025.

AI-driven phishing will become more convincing, as attackers use LLMs to create highly personalized, realistic messages designed to trick users.

LLMs could also help automate the discovery of software vulnerabilities and create more evasive malware, making it harder for traditional antivirus tools to detect threats.

Additionally, deepfake technology may be used to impersonate trusted contacts or companies in attacks.

Anti-Malware Protection (30%)

We evaluate how well the antivirus detects and removes various malware types like viruses, trojans, ransomware, and spyware.

• In-House Testing: Using 1,200 diverse malware samples, we conduct real-time attack simulations to assess detection and neutralization of known and emerging threats through signature-based and heuristic analysis.
• Independent Lab Results: We incorporate findings from respected institutes like AV-Test, SE Labs, and AV-Comparatives to validate our results.

Security and Privacy Features (30%)

We assess additional tools that enhance cybersecurity:

• Web Protection: Testing the software’s ability to block phishing sites and web-based threats by accessing known malicious websites.
• Firewall: Evaluating effectiveness using intrusion simulations and the ShieldsUP! test to secure network ports and monitor traffic.
• Password Manager: Assessing capabilities to generate, store, and auto-fill complex passwords, plus features like two-factor authentication and biometric login.
• VPN: Evaluating security protocols, encryption, speed, server locations, data limits, and support for streaming and peer-to-peer sharing while hiding IP addresses.
• Parental Controls: Testing screen time management, content filtering, location tracking, and resistance to bypass attempts to protect children.
• Identity Theft Protection: Assessing monitoring of personal info and responsiveness to potential identity theft alerts.
• Secure Cloud Storage: Evaluating capacity, security, usability, and features like file encryption and secure sharing.
• Anti-Ransomware: Simulating attacks to test detection and blocking of unauthorized encryption via behavioral detection and exploit prevention.
• Dark Web Monitoring: Checking effectiveness in scanning the dark web for personal info and providing timely alerts.

System Performance Impact (10%)

We measure how the antivirus affects device performance during everyday tasks:

• Resource Usage: Monitoring CPU and memory during scans and real-time protection.
• Performance Tests: Evaluating impact on launching apps, downloading files, browsing websites, and copying data, aligned with AV-Test criteria.

False Positives (10%)

Accuracy is crucial to avoid interruptions:

• False Positive Detection: Assessing how often legitimate applications or files are incorrectly flagged.
• Usability Tests: Referencing AV-Test evaluations to gauge false positive frequency for effectiveness and user-friendliness.

Price and Value (10%)

We analyze overall value by comparing features to cost:

• Cost Analysis: Considering subscription prices, device coverage, and multi-year plans.
• Feature Evaluation: Assessing if included features justify the price compared to competitors.

Ownership and Reputation (10%)

Trust is essential in cybersecurity providers:

• Company Background: Researching history, industry track record, mergers, or acquisitions.
• Privacy Policies: Examining data handling, privacy commitment, and compliance with regulations.
• Ethical Conduct: Investigating past unethical behavior, data breaches, or controversies.

Sources and tools

Below are the sources and tools we’ve used to test the antivirus software:

• Apple Platform Security
• AV-Comparatives Consumer
• AV-Test Android
• AV-Test macOS
• AV-Test Windows
• GRC Firewall Test
• Microsoft Defender
• SpeedTest VPN
• Trustpilot Security Software

Read more about how we test antivirus software.

We have tested 39 antivirus software from 28 brands. These range from free antivirus programs, to entry-level paid antivirus programs, mid-range paid antivirus software, and full-featured internet security suites.

These are the programs we recommend:

• Norton Antivirus Plus
• Norton 360 Standard
• Norton 360 Deluxe
• Norton 360 Advanced
• Norton 360 for Gamers
• Norton Antivirus for Mac
• Avast Antivirus One
• TotalAV Antivirus
• Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
• Bitdefender Internet Security
• Bitdefender Total Security
• Bitdefender Premium Security
• McAfee Antivirus LiveSafe
• McAfee Total Protection
• Panda Dome Antivirus
• Avira Antivirus Prime
• Surfshark Antivirus
• Intego Antivirus
• Kaspersky Antivirus Standard
• Kaspersky Antivirus Plus
• Kaspersky Antivirus Premium
• AVG Antivirus

We believe that Norton Antivirus Plus is the best entry-level antivirus software and Norton 360 Deluxe the best antivirus all around.

If you have a specific operating system that you would like to protect, we probably have a dedicated antivirus comparison for it:

• The best antivirus of 2025 – For all OS.
• The best antivirus for Windows 11 – For Microsoft’s latest desktop OS.
• The best antivirus for macOS – For Apple’s desktop OS.
• The best antivirus for Android – For Google’s mobile OS.
• The best antivirus for iPhone – For Apple’s mobile OS.
• The best antivirus with a VPN – For both security and privacy.
• The best antivirus with a Firewall – For a focus on network security.
• The best VPN of 2025 – For a dedicated privacy solution.

Click the links to be taken to your comparison of choice.

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