Bitdefender can be downloaded from the Mac App Store. After giving it full access to your disk and access to your security preferences in System Preferences, Bitdefender is ready to use. It is able to update its virus definitions in a timely manner, and you can choose between one of three scans: a Quick Scan, Deep Scan and a custom location scan of files or external volumes if you require. It comes with an effective anti-theft function, which 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 contains videos tutorials and a large collection of content and offers a high level of speed for virus scanning – a fast custom scan took just 5 minutes on my test device. It’s also among the few competitors that includes a vulnerability scan, which checks your device for outdated software and passwords that are not secure.
Overall, Bitdefender is one of the most effective malware scanners. It has consistently delivered impressive results in independent lab tests. It has the best spyware detection rates and a wide array of protection options, including parental and password manager controls. It includes machine protection as part of a variety of its business plans. This is a major advantage compared to other services.
Bitdefender’s interface is simple to use and divides its features into three categories: Privacy, Protection and Utilities. Protection is concerned with the aspects that come with most antivirus programs including real-time protection including firewall monitoring, ransomware and other countermeasures. Privacy addresses ways to ensure security while browsing the internet, like a safe browser (designed with banking and shopping sites in mind) that runs websites within a sandbox. It also prevents malware from contaminating your regular internet browser. The Utilities section contains useful tools and optimization tools.