Sophos is currently in the process of beta testing more Mac features, including malicious traffic detection and webcam and microphone protection, so look for new security options to roll out into the software soon.

Apple has mainly watched from the sidelines as criminals launch volleys at Windows machines, which are a juicier target thanks to how many of them are out there compared to Macs.

But Macs arent bulletproof, which is why installing an antivirus program is a smart move.

Antivirus protection is just one facet of a full security suite, but it has become a shorthand way to refer to computer security software.

One high-profile incident came to light in 2017 when Russian hackers unleashed insidious malware aimed at Macs.

Infected computers allowed the hackers to grab screenshots and collect browser passwords.

This alone should convince you that additional security software is a good idea for your Mac.

There are plenty of antivirus options for Mac, with both free and paid programs available.

Even Microsoft is getting into the Mac antivirus action with its Microsoft Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) security platform, which is available as a preview for some business users.

Microsofts ATP is not available for regular consumer Mac users, but it indicates how serious the movement is to protect MacOS.

The free version of Avast Security for Mac works to combat malware, malicious websites and potentially vulnerable Wi-Fi networks.

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Once you download the software, you can scan your Mac for any existing threats that might already be lurking on your laptop or desktop.

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The paid Pro upgrade adds an extra layer of security, including Wi-Fi intruder alerts that notify you when someone joins your network.

A subscription to Avast Security Pro runs 59.99 per year for a single computer.

If youre unsure about that investment, go ahead and start with the free version, which can capably deal with common security threats.

Find out how to back up your Mac Mac ransomware, malware and antivirus protection Kaspersky Internet Security for Mac reaches out beyond just basic antivirus efforts.

It also has a reputation for not putting a drag on your system as it works away in the background.

Kaspersky costs the same as the Avast Pro version: 59.95 for one Mac for one year.

You can test it out with a free trial before you commit to the subscription.

If parental controls are important to you, then check out the 79.95 Total Security version, which adds extra features geared for keeping kids safe.

Heres what you need to know about a critical iOS security update Security software with parental web filtering Sophos offers up a basic, free version of its security software that includes antivirus protection, parental web filtering and remote management.

Thats all pretty nice, but whats more interesting is the Sophos Home Premium paid subscription, which runs 60 per year (though it has recently been on sale for 45).

Premium includes the free features, but adds a suite of other security add-ons.

The big draw here is that the subscription covers up to 10 devices, making it an affordable way to protect a whole family of Mac computers.

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