Relying solely on their operating system’s default security tools is a mistake that many Mac and Windows users make. Various experts consider the default cybersecurity software on Windows and Macs to be subpar.
For instance, one cybersecurity professional found Windows Defender tied in the last place among security suites for protection and performance in an antivirus test assessment. Similarly, Mac’s default tools weren’t enough to prevent a record number of malware attacks last year.
According to Malwarebytes’ 2019 State of Malware report, the amount of malware on Macs is outpacing Windows per endpoint. The cybersecurity company noticed a 400 percent increase on Apple’s computers in 2019, with double the average threats compared to Windows.
Even Apple’s App Store is not immune to malware infections. Several malicious apps have been caught creeping into the platform and infecting many customers. Most recently, a mysterious Mac malware dubbed Silver Sparrow, running on x86 and M1-based Macs was discovered by researchers. The sneaky malware had already infected 40,000 Macs before Apple neutralized the known strains of the infection. However, researchers worry that new strained armed with a malicious payload could still do damage in the future.
Clearly, the most significant advantage of downloading a cutting-edge antivirus security system for your computer is heightened safety measures. Here are some signs of excellent antivirus software:
- It complements your operating system’s security tools.
- It’s light and doesn’t slow down your computer, yet it’s powerful enough to crush most malware threats.
- It uses signature-based technology to protect your computer from known threats like destructive viruses and worms.
- It also relies on pattern-analysis technology to catch new threats before they can harm your computer.
- It uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to adapt, improvise, and offer proactive protection.
- It provides a free trial for you to take it for a test drive before you subscribe.
- Unlike some free antivirus software, it doesn’t blast you with ads or spy on you to sell your data to advertisers.
- Aside from viruses, the antivirus software stops ransomware, spyware, adware, keyloggers, exploits, Trojan horse attacks, etc., with a robust anti-malware engine. In addition, it shields you from fraudulent websites, emails, and links.
Without the best security tools, you can also face financial issues. For instance, a hacker can use spyware to learn the login details of your bank or ecommerce accounts and quickly transfer your money before you can react. Remember, the big banks won’t help you in such situations.
Similarly, a ransomware attack can lock your computer with demands for payment through Bitcoin. Sadly, the ransomware ordeal doesn’t always end after you send payment. The first fee may only unlock some of your files, and the cybercriminal may demand more installments. What’s more, your name and other sensitive details may end up on a database on the Dark Web for other hackers to target.
Aside from improved security, there are a few other benefits of using advanced antivirus software:
1. Greater Privacy
Cybercriminals use malware such as adware, spyware, stalkerware, and keyloggers to spy on you and invade your privacy. The right anti-malware tools can remove devious malware and protect your browsing habits, emails, pictures, videos, and location from threat actors.
The best cybersecurity tools are also handy if you’re travelling and using less secure networks to connect to the Internet from your laptop. Privacy protection software can be critical when journeying to nations where the state doesn’t respect fundamental human rights.
Besides good antivirus software, it would help if you also considered subscribing to a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service that uses the latest technology. A VPN will disguise your IP address to protect you from snooping eyes on the Internet. It will also encrypt your connection and shield your data from hackers. In addition to a VPN service, you should also ensure that your computer firewall is enabled to secure your network further. A firewall is a network barrier that often stops malicious software from accessing your computer.
Of course, with a good VPN service, you can also bypass the geo-blocking technology used by streaming platforms like Netflix and consume new entertainment. Likewise, you can use a VPN to protect your privacy from shopping websites that block international customers.
2. Improved Performance
Has your computer been running worse than usual? Have you noticed slow-downs and crashes? Before you upgrade your machine, try running antivirus software that holds anti-malware technology. Malware such as adware, spyware, viruses, and the like, can consume valuable processing power or corrupt essential files and folders and hinder your computer’s performance.
In addition, please download freeware carefully because such programs usually contain the type of privacy-breaching malware that slows your computer. Likewise, whenever you buy a new computer, you should uninstall all the useless preinstalled software. These programs are known as bloatware and may carry annoying adware infections or dangerous spyware.
4. Faster Internet Connection
Many types of malware like adware, spyware, and software keyloggers hog your Internet connection in order to communicate with their authors. Likewise, cryptomining malware also puts a load on your computer. That’s why you sometimes gain Internet speed when you use anti-malware tools to remediate malicious software.
5. Less Annoyance on the Internet
Aside from boosting your Internet speed, removing malware may also improve your browser’s performance. For instance, adware ruins the mood of many Internet users by blasting their screen with irritating pop-up ads. Adware also hijacks browsers, sometimes redirecting them to fraudulent websites. Adware may also install unsightly plugins and toolbars.
The best antivirus software removes adware and makes the Internet enjoyable again. If you simply want to get rid of adware without download antivirus software, try a fast removal tool like Adwcleaner that scans and crushes all types of potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) without installing anything on your computer.
Please remember that top anti-malware tools can only do so much. After you beef up your computer’s security, you must learn to spot phishing expeditions, fake websites, malicious links, and other threats on the Internet. With a secure computer and sensible browsing habits, you can use the Internet stress-free.
