Do I need Bitdefender on new Netgear Nighthawk router?

Here is some info I found on it:

https://www.pcworld.com/article/3246704/netgear-armor-router-firmware-update-bitdefender-security.html

First, their claims about mobile devices are worthless as there ie no AV software able to penetrate Apple’s walled garden that is iOS. As for using it on a Mac, it is not necessary or helpful and you will not be happy with your Mac’s performance if you allow it to mess with your system.

My recommendation: don’t bother.

No, you don't need it, the router is protection enough. The reason they are using it is because they receive compensation from the developer to do so.

No Anti-Virus software or so-called “cleaning” apps are needed or recommended for Mac OS. They can conflict with Mac's own built-in security. At best they will slow your Mac by using unnecessary resources and at worst will bork your entire system.

@rswc90 in his initial post is asking about using Netgear Armor, which is powered by Bitdefender, on the router. That is what Netgear Arbor is, an internet security software powered by Bitdefender installed directly on the router, therefore protecting ANY devices connected to the internet on the WiFi network.

I am in a similar situation as @rswc90. My router is a Netgear Orbi RBR50K AC3000, which works extremely well. Devices currently in use include two Windows 10 computers, and two MacBook Pros.

So I too am debating whether or not I should install Netgear Armor. 

I think we all agree that AV protection on Apple devices, be it iOS or OS X, is not necessary. Notwithstanding, I do believe that having good protection right at the router level has merit with respect to non-Apple devices connected to the internet via WiFi. In my case, my Windows 10 desktop and laptops would be protected, so would my WebOS LG TV, and any other devices family and guests might have.

Moreover, Netgear Armor, in addition to the router software installation, comes with free Bitdefender software on individual devices, with no limit on the number of devices. So I would probably install it on the Windows laptop, but not on the Macs.

The ONLY reason I am hesitating to get Netgear Armor (Bitdefender) is my concern concerning the potential performance impact of having that ’filter’ installed on the router.

I have been surfing the Web extensively and have not been able to come up with any legitimate and reliable user or expert hands-on review of the Netgear Armor set up and speed tests before and after Armor.

Malwarebytes is the only recommended application for malware and your best protection. Also, to pick up malware you have to actively install it, or be tricked into installing it by it being included in the installer for a program you do want. This won't happen if you download only from the AppStore or from the developer's own site.

Actually Genio is adware and is effectively removed by MalwareBytes. There are no known viruses that affect Macs.

This user tip describes what you need to know regarding protecting your Mac: Effective defenses against malware and other threats - Apple Community

In your response to @rswc90, what did you mean by "... the router is protection engouh." Netgear Armor (powered by Bitdefender) installs directly on the router. I understand and agree that Bitdefender on a Mac is not necessary. But on a WiFi network, to which a number of different devices can be internet-connected, having the security right at the router might be a good way to protect all devices on the network. I don't have Netgear Armor installed on my Netgear Orbi router yet, as I am still investigating the pros and cons.