How to enable real-time virus protection on all devices
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About 5 minutes to complete
Make sure a reputable antivirus / anti-malware tool with real-time scanning is active on every computer you use.
Step-by-step guide
5 steps
Why this matters
Real-time protection catches and quarantines malware before it can do damage, including ransomware that would otherwise encrypt all your files.
How to confirm it worked
- The setting is saved and active on your device
- You have tested it works before closing the page
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need to buy antivirus software for Windows?
No. Windows comes with Microsoft Defender, which provides solid real-time protection at no cost. Most independent security tests rate it as comparable to paid alternatives. You do not need to pay for a third-party antivirus unless you want extra features.
Do Mac computers need antivirus?
Macs are less commonly targeted than Windows PCs, but they are not immune. macOS includes built-in protection (XProtect and Gatekeeper) that updates automatically. For most home users this is adequate. Malwarebytes Free is a useful extra tool for scanning if you are concerned.
Does my phone need antivirus software?
For iPhones, antivirus apps provide little real benefit: the operating system already sandboxes apps tightly. For Android phones, keeping the OS and apps updated and only installing apps from the Google Play Store is more effective than any antivirus app.
What is the difference between a scan and real-time protection?
A scan checks your device for threats at a single point in time. Real-time protection continuously monitors your device, catching malware as soon as it tries to run, rather than after the fact. Real-time protection is what matters most; scheduled scans are a useful supplement.
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