Bitdefender is simple to download from the Mac App Store and, after granting it access to your security settings in System Preferences and full disk access, it’s set to go. It will automatically update its virus definitions and you can select between a Quick Scan and a Deep Scan. You can also choose to scan files and external volumes in a customized location. The application includes a very efficient anti-theft feature in addition, it allows you to detect and play an alarm on your device remotely, remove its contents and prevent it from connecting to wifi networks.
The program also features a handy online knowledge base that includes videos tutorials and a large collection of content, and it offers excellent speed for scanning viruses – a quick custom scan took less than 5 minutes on my test device. It’s also one of the few alternatives that have a vulnerability scan that checks your device for old programs and weak passwords.
Overall, Bitdefender is one of the top malware scanners. It consistently gives impressive results in independent lab tests. It provides unbeatable spyware detection rates and a comprehensive protection package that includes features such as password managers, a quick VPN with an anti-tracker and parental controls. It also offers protection for machines in many of its business plans, which is a major benefit when compared to other services.
Bitdefender’s interface is simple to use and divides its features into three categories including Privacy Utilities, Protection and Privacy. Protection deals with things associated with the majority of antivirus tools that include real-time protection, firewall monitoring and ransomware countermeasures. Privacy deals with methods to stay secure while browsing the internet, like a safe browser (designed with banking and shopping sites in mind) that runs websites in a sandbox and prevents malware from infecting your normal internet browser. The Utilities category contains optimization tools as well as other useful tools.