Microsoft Defender Antivirus on MacOS?

[iphonefreak450]

I know that there is a Microsoft Defender Antivirus for MacOS similar to the one built-in on Windows machines.
If I decide to run MS Defender on my Mac, will it automatically disable the Gatekeeper and XProtect?

Or, should I just stick with the built-in security controls using Gatekeeper and XProtect?

What are some suggestions?

What really better does the job?

 

[Iwavvns]

I would just stick with what ships with macOS.. after all Apple knows their own system. I find it hard to believe that Microsoft antivirus would be able to scan the entire system.

 

[iphonefreak450]

Just realized that it does require a subscription plan as well. No thanks.

 

[Iwavvns]

Just realized that it does require a subscription plan as well. No thanks.

No sense paying for something that you already have and can do a job better because it is developed by the same people that make macOS.

 

[gank41]

I know that there is a Microsoft Defender Antivirus for MacOS similar to the one built-in on Windows machines.
If I decide to run MS Defender on my Mac, will it automatically disable the Gatekeeper and XProtect?

Or, should I just stick with the built-in security controls using Gatekeeper and XProtect?

What are some suggestions?

What really better does the job?

I use MS Defender on my M1 MBP, signing in with my Microsoft Office Account, and Gatekeeper & XProtect do continue to work normally.

 

[ZMacintosh]

no need for third party AV software, just keep macOS up to date, enable gatekeeper and filevault for additional protection

 

[Furka]

I only see the need of a AV only if you are on a net with Windows pcs for example, an not to protect the mac, but the windows stations .

 

[bogdanw]

“The Mac Malware of 2023”
https://objective-see.org/blog/blog_0x77.html

 

[TinyMito]

I know that there is a Microsoft Defender Antivirus for MacOS similar to the one built-in on Windows machines.
If I decide to run MS Defender on my Mac, will it automatically disable the Gatekeeper and XProtect?

Or, should I just stick with the built-in security controls using Gatekeeper and XProtect?

What are some suggestions?

What really better does the job?

No needs, just don't download random things on the Internet. Don't click on random emails that feels like panic mode. Most are phishing.

 

[bogdanw]

Don't click on

We are in the age of zero-click exploits now.
Kaspersky - "What is a zero-click exploit?" https://www.kaspersky.com/blog/what-is-zero-click-exploit/49637/

 

[TinyMito]

We are in the age of zero-click exploits now.
Kaspersky - "What is a zero-click exploit?" https://www.kaspersky.com/blog/what-is-zero-click-exploit/49637/

Don't open emails. Just read from notifications.

 

[Mac Hammer Fan]

If SIP is disabled because of OCLP, should I use Microsoft Defender or Malwarebytes?

 

[LinMac]

System security like operational security isn't just a buy one product and done. It takes layers.

For layered security, telling somebody don't click the sketchy ads for downloads won't stop them from making a mistake. Adguard, uBlock Origin, Brave, and other technical solutions will. It reduces attack surface and risk of user error. It is one of the best and least invasive changes you can make. You can also look at products from vendors like ESET and Malwarebytes. These are extremely popular products with loads of customers across the internet. Products like that provide a last line of security against zero day exploits or similar long tail problems.

You want your system to be as layered with defenses as you can while still being usable for your daily work. Adblockers, security/malware scanners, and similar transparent measures all help. It all depends on your needs like having an elderly parent who might fall victim to scams.

 

[bradman83]

Just realized that it does require a subscription plan as well. No thanks.

If you already have a Microsoft 365 subscription then defender is a great choice, it does not interrupt any other core system functions.

There are other great free options out there if you're not a Microsoft 365 subscriber. I used to use the free Avira solution when I had to have an antivirus installed to access my company's VPN.

There is nothing wrong with putting an antivirus solution on a Mac for added security. Zero day exploits do exist and Apple doesn't have the best record for being responsive. Responsible web usage will largely keep you safe (the same is true on Windows and Linux) but it never hurts to be careful.

 

[HDFan]

MacOS security is a contentious subject. Many say that the built in protections are sufficient. Personally when I lock my door I also use a deadbolt. I want multiple layers of protections so if something slips through one layer the next may catch it. I layer Sophos and Little Snitch over the basic MacOS security. Additional layers include a hardware firewall as well as my internet modem security settings.

 

[Yebubbleman]

Defender for Mac isn't necessary. Though, it comes with most Microsoft 365 plans nowadays, so you may end up getting it if you are a current subscriber. It's nothing to fret over, certainly.