Do I need to install an antivirus program on my new MBP?

Generally speaking, no, you don't need it - just my opinion, though. And read this:

Viruses, Trojans, Malware - and other aspects of Internet Security

charlie

It's really a personal preference. People here will say you should have it, others will say you don't need it. Stay away from Norton products however. If you are looking, download ClamXav for free from the app store.

For MacOS X, no. The bulk of the risk to that OS comes in form of Trojans, Social Engineering and other means more amenable to control via proper user training. However, if you run a Windows instance, either on BootCamp or virtualized, you will need an antivirus for it.

I'm not disagreeing with you by any means, but why wouldn't you recommend Norton? I've read tons of reviews and they say that it is competent and I'm planning to get it. For my PC [I've never had Antivirus on my current 2009 MBP] I've used Kapersky.

Just curious, as Mac is getting somne popularity so viruses are bound to pop up [more often] for Mac in the future, and I'm trying to future proof my Mac for at least 3-4 years.

Norton is known to cause serious damage to Mac hence the recommendation against installing it.

Personnally I don't have an AV package on my Mac because I don't wish to expend the resource it would take for the infintesimally small amount of protect it provides on a Mac.

Allan

Fair enough. Though if you were to purchase an AV ever for Mac, is there any that you, through your experiences on these boards, would strongly recommend?

Thanks!

ClamXav

I like VirusBarrier X6 by Intego. I also have problems in the past with Norton.