Top 5 Mac Antivirus Software Programs for Free

It is debatable whether the Mac even needs any additional antivirus software. Apple has recently admitted that it would be wise to provide additional protection. Apple's change of heart is probably more to do with quelling the public outcry of some Mac users.

Just to be safe it may not be a bad idea to install a Mac anti-virus software program. Since the usefulness of adding an antivirus software program to a Mac is unclear, installing a free Mac anti-virus version can't hurt. Here is a list of 5 of the top Mac anti-virus software programs available for free.

ClamXav

Based on the ClamAV engine ClamXav is open source Mac anti-virus software that works on OS X 10.4 and 10.5 with limited support on lower versions. It has real time scanning and can scan emails. Full scanning must be initiated by the user. This top antivirus software for the MacIntosh is a bargain for no money.

Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac Home Edition

The free Sophos anti-virus software for Mac Home Edition uses the same scanner as their business edition. It can scan Windows files for those that have a Windows virtual machine running on their Mac.

Malware detection can be setup to scan files as they are downloaded from the Internet. It provides email and on demand scanning. A top Mac software program with a lot of features for zero dollars.

PC Tools iAntivirus

PC Tools iAntivirus software is a Mac only anti-virus program available for free. It keeps the Mac clear of all the nasty things that can be downloaded for the Internet. It works only with Intel based Mac's running OS X 10.5 but is a top performer with a small footprint.

ChkRootKit MacOSX

ChkRootKit is a great free utility for Mac OS X 10.4.x or later. It is a Rootkit, Worm, and trojan scanner.

VirusBarrier Express

Based on Intego's VirusBarrier X6 VirusBarrier Express is the free version for Mac users. This top performing Mac antivirus software will keep the Mac free of malware and virus'. It can scan Windows files for those that share files with Microsoft users. Available at the Mac App store.

Conclusion

The only way to know if any of these 5 free top antivirus software programs for Mac are effective is to actually get a virus. The odds are in the favor of the Mac user that they will never encounter a virus detection. Still, it may not be a bad idea to keep the anti-virus software of choice database current.

Sources: Personal Experience.