The myth that "Macs don't get viruses" is dangerous. While macOS is secure, it is not invincible. Sophisticated ransomware and stealthy adware target Mac users specifically, making dedicated protection essential in 2026.
Quick Summary: Our Top 3 Picks for Mac
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1Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac Best overall protection with Time Machine rollback features.
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2Norton 360 Deluxe Excellent identity protection and unlimited VPN for Mac.
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3TotalAV for Mac Great cleanup tools to speed up your Mac.
1. Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac
Bitdefender is our top choice for Mac users because it respects the ecosystem. It's incredibly lightweight and designed to work with macOS, not against it. It detected 100% of Mac-specific malware samples in our testing.
A standout feature is its Time Machine Protection, which adds an extra layer of security to your backups, ensuring that even if ransomware strikes, your recovery points remain safe.
- Time Machine Protection
- Ultra-fast scans
- Adware blocker
- Traffic Light (Web Protection)
2. Norton 360 Deluxe
Norton 360 brings its heavy-hitting security to the Mac. It's ideal for users who want a comprehensive suite. The "Deluxe" plan covers up to 5 devices, allowing you to protect your Mac alongside your iPhone or iPad.
The included Unlimited VPN is fast enough for streaming and essential for keeping your browsing private on public Café Wi-Fi, a common use case for MacBook owners.
- Unlimited VPN
- Dark Web Monitoring
- Smart Firewall for Mac
- Password Manager
3. TotalAV
TotalAV is fantastic for less tech-savvy users who just want "set it and forget it" protection. The interface is clean, modern, and very easy to navigate on a Mac.
Apart from strong antivirus protection, it features an excellent suite of Mac Optimization Tools. It can find duplicate files, clear junk, and speed up your system with a single click.
- System Tune-Up
- User-friendly App
- Web Shield
- Duplicate Finder
Mac Security FAQ
We answer the most common questions about macOS security.