Mac and Linux Software

How safe are alternative operating systems?

Computers running Macintosh or Linux operating systems are less susceptible to viruses than those running Windows, because most viruses specifically target Windows computers. However, the alternative operating systems are vulnerable to other types of malware, especially spyware and adware embedded in cookies. Non-Windows computers are also capable of sending viruses to Windows computers via e-mail. For those reasons, experts say that even Mac and Linux users should consider security software.

We found far fewer reviews for Mac software than for Windows software in general; however, Intego Internet Security Barrier X5 (*Est. $95) gets more coverage than other Internet security suites for the Mac. Larry Grinnell, writing for MyMac.com calls it "extensive and heavily configurable," and Tom Gorham, writing for MacUser, says it's both easier to use and more effective than Norton. Norton Internet Security 4 for Mac (*Est. $80), released in December 2008, has its admirers as well. MacObserver.com's John Martellaro rates it "outstanding," for its "high-level" security and simple interface. One advantage of Norton over Intego is that it doesn't require a reboot after each product update.

The issue of virus and malware protection for Linux users is somewhat controversial. The various Linux distributions -- including the popular Ubuntu, openSUSE, Fedora and Mandriva -- are all based on the highly secure Unix operating system. Linux.com author Joe Barr says it's really not necessary to worry about malware if you're running Linux. PC World's Scott Spanbauer acknowledges that Linux is the safest operating system, but he recommends supplementing with free software. See the ConsumerSearch report on antivirus software for information on free antivirus software that will run under Linux.