OS X Security Explained

I get a lot of customers asking if their Macs and Apple laptops need security software. And they always seemed surprised when I say no. Here’s it explained, why Macs don’t need security software.

Cybercriminal gangs are focused exclusively on Windows because there are more Windows users, yes, but also because Windows is still easier to hack. As a Unix-based operating system OS X is by its very nature sandboxed. It’s like having a series of fire doors – even if malware gains access to your Mac, it is unable to spread to the heart of the machine. Macs are not un-hackable, but they are more difficult to exploit than Windows PCs.

OS X 10.8 takes it even further. It includes a gatekeeper function that by default prevents Mac users from installing anything other than Apple-approved software.

There are exceptions, however. If you are running a business with a fleet of Macs, or a network of both Macs and Windows PCs, I’d suggest getting in some protection. It’s a belt and braces approach that may not be necessary, but if you have a lot to lose it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.

You may also consider using antivirus on your Mac if for some reason you could be targeted individually – if you have access to sensitive or high-value data, for instance.