How to choose a software protection in 2023

We currently have so many different types of AntiMalware and virus protection programs to choose from and picking the most adequate, could be a little bit challenging. You may be wondering, what aspects you need to take into account when getting an antivirus or any software protection. First of all, it is important to mention that, there are plenty of free versions available with very decent level of security. However, some important ones, are only enabled for premium (paid) users.

How to choose a software protection in 2023

Microsoft Windows

When you install a third party Antivirus, one of the main features, in most cases, is only available for premium (paid) users is ‘real-time-protection’.“Real Time” protection is the main reason why we decide to have antivirus installed: “to detect potential malware attacks or any threats when there is any attempt to infect your device”.

Windows Protection

Most Vulnerable

Microsoft Windows is the most popular Operating System and the main target for attacks which makes, most of us, feel very vulnerable and this is why we decide to install another security shield for our devices.

It would be reasonable to think, that since Windows 10 & 11 already come with Windows Defender We don’t need any other protection and that if we do decide to add one more, it would an extra layer of security and here is when it ends up being a little confusing for most users.

Once a third party software protection is installed, some of Windows Defender’s features are disabled automatically. However you will still be able to re-enable them and configuring properly to work along the new third party software.
A poor configuration will cause continuous notifications alerts with “false-positive” detections.

Apple MacOS runs its own built in security called ‘X-Protect’.

However, Apple has design it to scan all applications and files using its database which is updated daily and without the need of users to do any configuration by default. It alerts you when there is an attempt of downloading third party software or from unknown developers. Additionally, Macs keep malicious software from causing too much damage with tools like Execute Disable (XD), Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR), and System Integrity Protection (SIP) that run in the background to prevent viruses from accessing critical files.

Apple MacOS

Even though, it is a stronger and harder to allow threats, the years when Apple MacOS was not vulnerable to malware are far behind and its built-in security isn't "bullet-proof". Installing software protection to a MacOS is just as necessary as in a Windows OS, for the same exact reasons.

MacOS Protection