Mac and Linux AV software

Antivirus protection for alternative operating systems

Many people believe that computers running Linux or Macintosh operating systems are immune from viruses. While nearly all viruses specifically attack Windows, other types of malware are platform-neutral.

If you are running both Mac OS X and Windows on an Intel-based Mac computer, be aware that you need to protect both platforms -- that means you need security software for Windows even if you are working on a Mac.

While worms might not affect Macintosh computers, they can be unwittingly passed along via e-mail to Windows computers. Mac users who are on a network shared by both Windows and Mac systems need to protect other users on the system from malicious macros and Trojan horses. Intego's VirusBarrier X5 (*Est. $70) gets a 4.5 rating from Macworld's Scott McNulty, who calls it "the gold standard," and "well worth the money." Norton AntiVirus 11 (Est. $45) gets the same high score. McNulty calls Norton's default settings "a bit aggressive," but says it's "the obvious choice for protecting your Mac in a mixed Windows-Mac environment."

Reviewers acknowledge that the free ClamXav 1.1 doesn't match either of the top two contenders for efficiency or usability, but McNulty says it's still "an able antivirus program that will keep your Mac protected." The big plus is that it's free. Reviewers say it can cause a bit of drag, but that may be worth it if you're looking to keep your costs to an absolute minimum.

The general consensus in the Linux community is that antivirus software is an option rather than a necessity. According to Linux.com author Joe Barr new Linux users "really don't need to fear malware on your new platform, thanks to the way Linux is built." Others recommend a more conservative approach to Internet security. IPC World's Scott Spanbauer agrees that Linux is the safest operating system, but he does recommend free antivirus programs for Linux users. Clam AntiVirus is excellent, he says. As an alternative, "If you'd prefer antivirus software with a commercial track record, try the Linux version of AVG Technology's renowned AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition."