Antivirus questions, answered
Short answers, with links to the full guides.
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Antivirus and your computer
Microsoft says the Windows Security app is built into Windows and includes Microsoft Defender Antivirus. Built-in protection: Windows Security and macOS XProtect
Apple says macOS includes built-in antivirus technology called XProtect. Built-in protection: Windows Security and macOS XProtect
CISA's archived guidance says signature-based antivirus can only detect malware with known characteristics, so keep taking other precautions. Products differ in how they detect malware; read each vendor's own page. What antivirus software does and does not do
Scams
Microsoft says real error messages from big tech companies never include phone numbers to call. How to spot fake antivirus warnings and pop-ups
CISA lists urgent language, requests for personal information, and odd links or addresses. Phishing basics: how to spot a fake message
Prices and picks
No. When a vendor link is present, see the current price at the vendor.
We do not name one. Antivirus checklist before you pay
About us
No. We publish guides. Software is sold by the vendor.
No. We cannot help with your computer or software, and we will never call you or ask to connect to your computer. Contact the maker of your device or software. Where a guide cites CISA, Microsoft, or Apple, we quote or summarize the page and link to it. None of them endorses this site or any product.
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Start with what you have
Windows Security and XProtect, from Microsoft and Apple.
