virus software

hi just got my first imac 27in wow great i will never go back to pcs anyway do anyone use virus software on imacs thanks gp

Hi and welcome to the forums.

I think I can safely say that most users on this forum try not to use virus software...but if you are asking about anti-virus software then the answer is still no. Currently you really don't need them on Macs.

Just pay attention to what you are downloading and installing. Also only install software from sources you trust. Those are just good habits in general to practice even though you don't need an anti-virus.

Have not used any antivirus software in 7 years but one has to watch for Phishing etc - Got one this morning;


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gpmac said:

hi just got my first imac 27in wow great i will never go back to pcs anyway do anyone use virus software on imacs thanks gp

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I do but only to be proactive in my use of a computer. Especially since I run a Mac (well actually 3) in a mostly Windows dominant network in my home. Really you don't need to, though, it doesn't hurt. But if the iMac is the only thing you have, I see no reason to. Unless you work in Microsoft Office.

thanks for replies

thanks for ur replies i think i will leave it and see how it goes

Ive never used anti virus software on any of my macs and my ibook went 6 years without a format and still kept chuggin away, i think its safe to say anti-virus is not needed. Also what endless said , don't just start downloading random things from untrusted sources and you'll be fine. I don't even run anti-virus on my pc's cause you don't actually need it as long as you know where your going and what your downloading

Follow these rules and you'll have nothing to worry about:

1. Before you install any software downloaded from the Internet, make sure you trust the source of the software. Also, make sure you know what the program is and what it does.
2. If you install any software download from the Internet, be particularly cautious about installing it if you are prompted for your password during the installation (this means that the software wants to modify system directories or files).
3. Turn on your OS X firewall in the Security preferences pane. Go into Advanced and enable "Stealth Mode". This makes your computer invisible on any network you might happen to connect to, and therefore will make it that much more difficult for a motivated hacker to locate to do any damage to.
4. Keep your software and operating system up-to-date. When prompted to update a software package, particularly things like Java, Flash and other web-enabled technologies.

There are only two pieces of malicious software for Mac OS X, both are classified as Trojans (not to be confused with viruses). One is known to accompany a pirated version of iWork '09, the other is disguised as a fake video player app that is mostly distributed on disreputable sites (pornographic).

So, just apply a bit of common sense and you'll have nothing to worry about.