Mac users have suffered under the delusion that theirs are invulnerable to viruses and malware for years. After all, macOS is somewhat synonymous with security, and Apple’s closed ecosystem brings a layer of protection. But cyber attacks are becoming increasingly advanced, and Mac computers are no exception. In 2025, the need for trustworthy antivirus for Mac software couldn’t be more obvious.
Although macOS has good support for security with Gatekeeper (which helps to keep down malware by enforcing code signing and verifying that the downloaded application matches repair, and known, good copy of the app), XProtect (so that known malware can be detected and removed) and FileVault (which is great if someone nicks your Mac so that they can’t see your files without your password), they may not be enough in the face of all the latest threats, including ransomware, phishing attacks, adware and more. If you care about keeping your Mac as safe as possible, you need reputable antivirus software. We will list the best antivirus programs for Mac in 2025 below.
Norton 360 for Mac
Norton is a veteran of antivirus companies, and its Norton 360 for Mac bundle remains one of the best Mac antivirus options for 2025. Even if you don’t have a PC, you’ll find a lot to love in Kaspersky Security Cloud, the best antivirus software we’ve ever tested. Norton 360 for Mac includes:
Real-time protection: It checks every file and website you visit in real time to prevent infections even on your Mac.
VPN: The included VPN secures your online privacy when connecting to your home network.
Cloud backup: Norton 360 gives you the option to backup your important files stored on your computer and prevents ransomware attacks from accessing these files.
Dark web monitoring: You’re notified if your personal information is detected on the dark web.
With a powerful security suite and high-quality performance, Norton 360 is still one of the best options for antivirus for Mac in 2025.
Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac
Bitdefender is respected for its proliferation of excellent protection for every operating system out there, and Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac is no exception. It is lighter-weight than most Mac antivirus software while providing outstanding protection for your Mac without slowing it down, enabling your Mac to run like, well, a Mac. Key features include:
Live malware protection: Bitdefender actively defend you against ransomware, and other types of malware, with their wide range of protection, including virus protection, plus removal of existing malware.
Multi-layer ransomware protection – It is an extra layer of protection that ensures your files won’t be encrypted by ransomware.
Privacy firewall: A built-in firewall acts in the background as a sentinel while you’re connected to the internet.
Almost zero impact on system performance: Being light on Mac resources, Bitdefender protects your device without weighing down its performance or interrupting you with video scenes and dialogues.
Looking for high-performance and low-impact antivirus for Mac?
Intego has long focused on delivering security products to protect Mac computers, and its Intego Mac Internet Security X9 package was built for macOS in particular. This antivirus for Mac provides powerful protection for Mac in 2025, including these features:
Real-time malware protection: Intego’s antivirus protects your Mac from being infected by malware such as viruses, adware, and Trojans in real time.
Firewall: The integrated firewall makes it easy to protect your Mac from unauthorized access by other computers on the network and prevents network attacks.
Privacy protection – Intego features tools that act as a shield of protection for your online privacy and safeguard from potentially offensive web content and advertising.
Parental controls: The program also contains online controls–something many families may find beneficial.
Intego is an excellent option for Mac users in search of macOS-native security software, and it’s the best choice for users who value both protection and usability.
Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac
Another big name in antivirus, Trend Micro’s Antivirus for Mac, includes more than just strong anti-phishing and anti-ransomware features. This is what Trend Micro looks like in 2025:
Ransomware protection: The program employs sophisticated methods to safeguard your Mac from ransomware with a shield that keeps unauthorized encryption of your files.
Internet security: Trend Micro provides the Smart Protection Network to block malicious links as well as to protect you from dangerous sites and online thieves.
Email scanning: It checks incoming emails for dangerous attachments or links.
Mac optimization tools: Trend Micro features its other tools to keep your Mac up to speed and running smoothly.
If you’re after overall protection with a particular focus on web threats and ransomware, then Trend Micro is a great choice for Mac antivirus in 2025.
Avast Premium Security for Mac mettle with AVG’s own security and privacy applications.
Another very popular brand is Avast, and their Avast Premium Security for Mac gives full protection to Mac users in 2025. Features include:
Extra ransomware protection: Avast’s ransomware shield protects your most important files and folders from encryption by malware.
Webcam shield: This feature prevents a rogue device from unauthorized access to your webcam.
Wi-Fi security scan: Avast inspects your Wi-Fi network for threats to help you secure your Wi-Fi.
Real-time protection: The antivirus checks every file, email, and website you visit for malware that could infect your Mac.
Users looking for comprehensive protection, including privacy and network security, will appreciate Avast Premium Security.
Conclusion
Though four years away, the value of dependable antivirus for Mac software cannot be underestimated. Although macOS provides a few measures to secure your system, you will still need a third-party antivirus to achieve full protection against the ever-changing threats. Whether you use Norton, Bitdefender, Intego, Trend Micro, or Avast, they all offer some of the best protection around for Mac users.
The best antivirus for your Mac By picking the perfect antivirus software for your Mac, you can keep your PC malware free, protect yourself from ransomware, and make sure (with the right combination of software and internet common sense) that you and your data are safe.
