Intego VirusBarrier X4 Review

What the reviewers like:
Experts say that Intego VirusBarrier scans quickly, is integrated well with the Mac operating system, and is easy to install and use. The program works as advertised (but some reviewers aren't sure Mac user even need antivirus software).

What the reviewers don't like:
Reviewers note that Intego VirusBarrier is more expensive than its leading competitor among antivirus software for Mac, Norton AntiVirus for Mac (*est. $50). And some experts aren't sure if Mac users even need antivirus software.

Intego VirusBarrier X4 review highlights

The debate in the Macintosh community is less about which is the best Macintosh antivirus program than whether Mac users even need antivirus software. Documentation on both sides of the debate is weak and emotional. Even if your computer doesn't need protection, you need software to prevent the spread of viruses to others, and if your Mac computer is also running Windows, you'll need antivirus software for the Windows module. Reviews indicate that Intego VirusBarrier X4 is faster and less invasive, if not also more effective, than Norton AntiVirus 10.1 (*est. $50). However, Intego VirusBarrier X4 is more expensive.

We found the most detailed review of Intego VirusBarrier X4 at Macworld, where the software is formally tested and directly compared with other Mac antivirus applications. AAUG Reviews has a very rational single-product review. MyMac.com and FMUG have favorable reviews with no documentation. We found some good user reviews at Amazon.com for Intego VirusBarrier X4.

Also see full report: Antivirus Software

*In order of credibility (see our Ratings Criteria).

1. Macworld
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Antiviral Armor: Mac antivirus software assessed
Rob Griffiths
June 20, 2006

In this article, Rob Griffiths directly compares Intego VirusBarrier X4 with Norton AntiVirus 10.0 and a free program. He does not evaluate the ability of each program to prevent malware, but adequately covers other usage issues.

2. Macworld
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Intego VirusBarrier X4: It's fast, thorough, and easy to use
Rob Griffiths
May 11, 2006

This single-product review pre-dates the comparative review (above). It evaluates Intego VirusBarrier X4 in a little more detail.

3. AAUG Reviews
VirusBarrier X4 Review
Dave Enders
June 13, 2006

This very rational single-product review of Intego VirusBarrier X4 covers the major buying and usage considerations, although Dave Enders does not test effectiveness. He frequently transfers files between Windows and OS X, and says antivirus software is a must for that reason.

4. Amazon.com
Intego VirusBarrier x4 10.4 for Mac OS X
Contributors to Amazon.com

Most of the dozen users reviewing Intego VirusBarrier X4 give it a high rating, and several users compare it favorably with Norton AntiVirus for Mac.

5. MyMac.com
Intego VirusBarrier X4 Review
Russ Walkowich
Mar. 27, 2006

This single-product review for Intego VirusBarrier is far more informative than evaluative. It includes a brief interview with the developer. Price is the only drawback to this program, according to Russ Walkowich.

Also see full report: Antivirus Software

Intego VirusBarrier X4 Review