Why Do Macs Need ESET?

It’s a common misconception that Macs don’t need antivirus. But that’s simply not true.

Historically, the number of macOS users has always been lower than that of Windows users. This meant that cybercriminals spent more time developing viruses to target the majority (Windows).

However, in recent years the number of macOS users has increased exponentially and as a result, so have the amount of Mac-based viruses – making antivirus for Mac more essential than ever.

What About Apple’s Built-In Security Features?

Although macOS comes with its own security software built-in, it’s not typically enough to keep your device completely protected.

XProtect is an anti-malware programme developed by Apple, which runs in the background of macOS.

Its job is to scan downloaded files and check them against an existing database of known malware threats.

Although the database it updated regularly, threats are sometimes missed and malware slips through.

How To Tell If Your Mac Has a Virus?

Without performing any scans or being alerted directly, there are a few things that could indicate a virus:

• A sudden change to your default browser or homepage
• Popups and banners either on-screen or in-browser
• Text on webpages changing (especially hyperlinks)
• Unknown programmes appearing on your device
• Crashing or freezing of your macOS
• Your device gets hot or fans can’t cope for no apparent reason

How Can ESET Protect Your Mac?

A third-party antivirus software, like ESET, works alongside the existing macOS security suites to provide you with comprehensive protection.

While you can rely on XProtect and Gatekeeper to look out for some of the bigger known malware, you can use a third-party antivirus software to target new and unknown malware attacks, as well as other non-malware related issues.

When you add all of this to the protection already offered by macOS, it’s easy to see how it can help.

Systemagic & Mac Security

As an MSP, we recommend that all users install a business-grade antivirus on their device, no matter the operating system.

With ESET Gold Partner certification, our friendly team of experts can help you deploy ESET on your devices and get the most from its range of cybersecurity features.