anti-virus for mac?

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Level 1

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anti-virus for mac?

hi,

I want to buy a new Mac computer but I wonder if buying an anti-virus software is a mandatory option to keep the Mac computer safe. It is mentioned in the Mac FAQ that Macs do not need an anti-virus software but I don't quite trust it as from my Windows PC usage experience, my computer will always be infected if I dopn't have one. Any suggestions about whether this is true?

HP m9098d, Windows Vista

Posted on Jun 26, 2008 2:45 AM

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Answer 1

AeroDesk Author

Level 1

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Jun 26, 2008 2:47 AM in response to AeroDesk

Correction: Any suggestions about whether a Mac requires an Anti-Virus software is true?

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Answer 2

Jun 26, 2008 3:31 AM in response to AeroDesk

A Mac, so far, does not need anti-virus software as long as you are only running OS X. If you run Windows either in Bootcamp or under Parallels or Fusion, the Windows installation must have anti-virus software. At some point in the future if the Mac becomes much more popular, and thus a more enticing target, it will need anti-virus software.

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Answer 3

J.C

Level 4

1,601 points

Jun 26, 2008 3:55 AM in response to AeroDesk

Hi AeroDesk

Although Anti-Virus software is not needed on Macs it is handy to have one to prevent you from passing on windows viruses. I use ClamXav to scan my computer about once a month just for piece of mind.

Edit: link now works

J.C

Message was edited by: J.C

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Answer 4

macjack

Level 10

111,242 points

Jun 26, 2008 3:45 AM in response to AeroDesk

Hi AeroDesk, here is the latest post on the subject.
http://discussions.apple.com/message.jspa?messageID=7443972

Use "Search Discussions" to find tons more. Warning: reading them can make you crazy 😉

-mj

Message was edited by: macjack

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Answer 5

AeroDesk Author

Level 1

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Jun 26, 2008 3:49 AM in response to AeroDesk

thanks for the suggestions :P

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