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THIS THREAD IS OLD. NEW THREAD HERE:
http://www.mac-forums.com/forums/sw...-official-antivirus-malware-firewall-faq.html
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Antivirus and malware for Mac OS X
One of the first questions that many new switchers ask is, “do I need an antivirus program on my Mac?” The answer is usually no, but the truth is more nuanced than that.
Types of malware
First, let’s be clear that there are many types of malware on the Internet including the big three: viruses, trojans, and spyware. Each behaves, infects, and spreads differently.
As of now there are no viruses that affect Mac OS X. Viruses rely on their ability to self-replicate and Mac OS X makes that almost impossible.
There are a few cases of trojans and spyware that can infect the Mac, however following common sense browsing will prevent them. For example, don’t download software or other files unless you’re sure the source is reliable.
Also, never enter your admin password if prompted unless you’re absolutely sure why you’re being asked to do so!
Apple also has a great site on the safety features built into Mac OS X:
Mac OS X - Security - Keeps safe from viruses and malware
So when might you want to install an antivirus program?
There are reasons to use an antivirus program in a few circumstances.
1. If you’re paranoid about downloading and spreading malware and it will make you rest more easily, install an antivirus program to set your mind at ease.
2. If you are in a mixed network environment with Windows machines or share files back and forth with Windows users on a regular basis, you might want to consider antivirus software.
While as noted above, it’s almost impossible for the Mac to become infected by malware, you can do your part of being a good network citizen by catching malware before you can pass it on to a Windows user on your network.
3. Many schools or companies require antivirus software to join their network.
Running Windows on your Mac?
We always recommend running antivirus software on Windows, even on your Mac. Microsoft Security Essentials is free and does a great job. It’s important to realize though that getting malware on your Windows partition cannot infect your Mac.
Antivirus software options for Mac
Free options
ClamXav is lightweight and highly recommended by many users here.
Paid options
Paid solutions are available from several vendors including Symantec, Intego, McAfee (enterprise only), Panda, and Avast.
Firewalls and Network Security
You should always enable the built-in firewall in Mac OS X when you're using a public network. You can find instructions for setting up and configuring the firewall for OS X 10.4, 10.5, and 10.6.
In addition, common sense prevails when it comes to network security. Don't connect to un-trusted networks and never accept data or file sharing requests from people you don't know.
Never underestimate having a strong password that you change often. The Mac's keychain can help with this or a great program like 1Password.
--
Last Updated: 07.28.2011
Original thread: http://www.mac-forums.com/forums/switcher-hangout/23835-official-mac-antivirus-firewall-faq.html
http://www.mac-forums.com/forums/sw...-official-antivirus-malware-firewall-faq.html
--------------------------------------------
Antivirus and malware for Mac OS X
One of the first questions that many new switchers ask is, “do I need an antivirus program on my Mac?” The answer is usually no, but the truth is more nuanced than that.
Types of malware
First, let’s be clear that there are many types of malware on the Internet including the big three: viruses, trojans, and spyware. Each behaves, infects, and spreads differently.
As of now there are no viruses that affect Mac OS X. Viruses rely on their ability to self-replicate and Mac OS X makes that almost impossible.
There are a few cases of trojans and spyware that can infect the Mac, however following common sense browsing will prevent them. For example, don’t download software or other files unless you’re sure the source is reliable.
Also, never enter your admin password if prompted unless you’re absolutely sure why you’re being asked to do so!
Apple also has a great site on the safety features built into Mac OS X:
Mac OS X - Security - Keeps safe from viruses and malware
So when might you want to install an antivirus program?
There are reasons to use an antivirus program in a few circumstances.
1. If you’re paranoid about downloading and spreading malware and it will make you rest more easily, install an antivirus program to set your mind at ease.
2. If you are in a mixed network environment with Windows machines or share files back and forth with Windows users on a regular basis, you might want to consider antivirus software.
While as noted above, it’s almost impossible for the Mac to become infected by malware, you can do your part of being a good network citizen by catching malware before you can pass it on to a Windows user on your network.
3. Many schools or companies require antivirus software to join their network.
Running Windows on your Mac?
We always recommend running antivirus software on Windows, even on your Mac. Microsoft Security Essentials is free and does a great job. It’s important to realize though that getting malware on your Windows partition cannot infect your Mac.
Antivirus software options for Mac
Free options
ClamXav is lightweight and highly recommended by many users here.
Paid options
Paid solutions are available from several vendors including Symantec, Intego, McAfee (enterprise only), Panda, and Avast.
Firewalls and Network Security
You should always enable the built-in firewall in Mac OS X when you're using a public network. You can find instructions for setting up and configuring the firewall for OS X 10.4, 10.5, and 10.6.
In addition, common sense prevails when it comes to network security. Don't connect to un-trusted networks and never accept data or file sharing requests from people you don't know.
Never underestimate having a strong password that you change often. The Mac's keychain can help with this or a great program like 1Password.
--
Last Updated: 07.28.2011
Original thread: http://www.mac-forums.com/forums/switcher-hangout/23835-official-mac-antivirus-firewall-faq.html