Do you really need third-party antivirus software for your MacBook?

Some MacBook owners may not be entirely aware of their device’s ability to prevent viruses from infecting it. While not perfect, one of the benefits of switching to a MacBook is Apple’s native antivirus protection measures, which effectively protect your laptop without additional help. Third-party antivirus software is not necessary to protect your MacBook from malware and other viruses. macOS systems are protected by three layers of defense designed to quickly identify and block malicious code.

The first layer deploys security features through the App Store and Gatekeeper with notarization that prevent malware from launching or running. The second tier again uses Gatekeeper and Notarization, along with XProtect anti-malware technology, to prevent systems from running malware. Finally, the third layer uses XProtect to remediate situations where malware has deployed. Some Reddit users reported not experiencing any issues on their devices thanks to the pre-installed antivirus software.

Although Macs have rock-solid malware protection, some users recognize that they are not 100% guaranteed to protect against threats. “Everyone kept telling me you don’t need antivirus for a Mac,” one Reddit user wrote. “Well, that’s partly true. Macs don’t get viruses easily and it’s pretty rare. I’m not saying it doesn’t happen, but I’ve been using a Mac for 15 years and only used antivirus software the first year. I’ve never detected anything.” Regardless, the user argued that Internet downloads from third parties could still expose your system to harmful software. So, it may be worth downloading another antivirus service to provide additional protection.

If you’re concerned that some malware might slip through the cracks of macOS’s extensive security measures, using third-party antivirus software will add an extra layer of protection. Essential security apps that actually defend your computer include ESET, Surfshark, Avira, AVG, Bitdefender, etc. Maintaining safe download practices and being vigilant (only downloading from the App Store and following macOS updates) will protect your device from malware. Ignoring the warning signs could otherwise lead to disaster. If you download torrents or software from various websites other than the App Store, you are more likely to infect your MacBook and a third-party antivirus would be necessary.

While third-party help can provide your MacBook with an extra safety net, it could also harm the security of your system. Software such as cleaners and VPNs can conflict with Mac’s antivirus capabilities. “These apps often cause more problems and headaches than they prevent because they conflict with macOS’s built-in security,” pointed out an Apple community member. So, just as you should be careful when downloading outside of the App Store, you should also carefully consider your options when installing third-party antivirus software.