It’s easy to see why Apple computers have risen in prominence over the last 15 years. In addition to being creatively designed, Macs come equipped with Apple’s renowned macOS, which a growing number of computer users find preferable to other operating systems. However, while it’s true that Macs hold a number of advantages over traditional PCs, viruses are still very much a problem for Mac users. Luckily, keeping viruses at bay doesn’t have to be an uphill battle for Apple enthusiasts. Mac owners looking to keep their computers virus-free are encouraged to put the following tips to good use.

Purchase Dedicated Antivirus Software

When looking for ways to turn your Mac into a virus-free zone, you can’t go wrong with dedicated antivirus software. The right antivirus software for Macs will provide you with constant updates, unwavering protection from a vast array of threats and a bevy of user-friendly security tools. To get the most out of your antivirus software, you’ll need to install updates as they become available instead of letting them pile up. Since these updates are created in response to the emergence of new threats, putting them on the backburner only serves to make your Mac more vulnerable.

You should also set your software to run regular virus scans. These scans can prove invaluable at detecting a variety of threats before they have a chance to become much larger problems. In most cases, virus scans can be carried out in the background without eating up a substantial amount of CPU, so you needn’t worry about them interfering with any other work you happen to be doing. You can set these scans to take place automatically, and to ensure maximum protection, it’s recommended that you schedule at least one scan per day. If you want to be extra-vigilant, scheduling one scan an hour can be a great way to keep your finger on the pulse of your Mac’s security situation.

In addition to investing in dedicated antivirus software, you should take full advantage of the antivirus features included in macOS. This cutting-edge operating system works hand-in-hand with antivirus software to keep your Mac as safe as possible. Again, to utilize macOS to the fullest, you’ll need to install system updates in a timely manner. If you don’t trust yourself to manually install them, just set the operating system to install them automatically.

Be Mindful of Your Browsing Habits

Unsecure websites are hotbeds of virus propagation. Just one visit to an unsafe site can be all it takes for your Mac to find itself inflicted with a nasty virus. Mac users hoping to nip this issue in the bud should exercise caution when visiting unfamiliar websites. For example, if your browser presents you with a security warning about a site you wish to visit, it’s generally a good idea to heed this warning. Furthermore, confirm that any unfamiliar site you wish to visit possesses an SSL certificate. To do this, simply look at the site’s URL and confirm that it begins with “https,” not “http.” This indicates that a site is protected by an SSL certificate, which serves to secure your data as it passes from your browser to the website’s server.

You should also exercise restraint when it comes to clicking links. Links found on suspicious websites, on social media or in emails from unfamiliar parties should be regarded with the utmost caution. Unless you are fully confident in a link’s authenticity, you’re better off leaving it alone.

Only Install Software from Trusted Sources

Software installation is among the most common ways in which viruses manifest themselves. To ensure that your Mac never falls victim to such a Trojan horse, take care to only download and install software from trusted sources. As an extra precaution, scan any software installation files with your dedicated antivirus program.

Apple computers truly have a lot going for them. Not only are they widely regarded as a hip alternative to traditional PCs, they offer an extensive assortment of amenities that can’t be found on standard computers. Still, this doesn’t mean that Macs aren’t susceptible to the same digital dangers that threaten PCs. Although Macs feature more robust virus protection than many PCs, they are by no means immune to infection. Mac users looking to keep their computers safe from an ever-expansive array of viruses can benefit from taking the measures discussed above.