Avastfreeantivirusmacsetup.dmg and avast-36227.dmg are the most frequent filenames for this program's installer. This Mac download was checked by our built-in antivirus and was rated as safe. This free software can be installed on Mac OS X 10.6.8 or later. Avast Online Security is a browser extension that is automatically downloaded when you install Avast Security. Avast Online Security is designed to improve your online security and overall experience when browsing the internet. This extension detects and warns you of phishing attempts or bad reputation websites.
There is a popular opinion that Mac systems are inherently more secure than Windows. In fact, most Mac users don’t even bother to use an antivirus or anti-malware software. Objectively speaking, that opinion may or may not be true. Mainly because that depends on a variety of factors like the number of Mac users, how they use their system, how computer literate they are, etc. However, over the past few years, the threats to Mac users have been increasing, thanks to quickly spearing malware, ransomware, and adware.
Read: Best Malware Removal Tools For Windows
Avoid MacKeeper
I bet you might have seen ads on websites (mostly porn sites), telling you to clean your Mac with MacKeeper. And while it’s legitimate software (as in not a virus), but it’s nonetheless useless and a waste of resources. Also, uninstalling MacKeeper isn’t easy as well. So, no matter what you do, avoid MacKeeper at any cost.
Instead, it is essential that you use a good anti-malware software so that not only you can be safe but also avoid spreading malware, ransomware, and viruses to other users. Here are some of the best anti-malware software for mac.
Read: How I Removed Malware From my WordPress Site
Best Anti Malware for Mac
1. Malwarebytes
When it comes to dealing with malware and other nasty stuff like rootkits, there is no other software that more popular than Malwarebytes. Other than it being able to remove malware from Mac effectively, the best thing about Malwarebytes is that it plays nice with your other antivirus software if you’ve already installed any. In fact, most users including me use Malwarebytes as a backup and perform weekly scans just to make sure that the system hasn’t been infected or has infected files.
To scan your system all you have to do is install the application, launch it and hit the scan button. As soon as you hit the button, it can do a quick scan for malware, PUPs (potentially unwanted programs), rootkits, adware, spyware, virus, etc., both in your system memory and hard disk. If it finds any threats, it will automatically quarantine those threats.
For in-depth scanning, select the custom scan option. Do keep in mind that the custom scan can take a couple of hours depending on the amount of data you have on your hard disk.
Download Malwarebytes (free, $40 for pro version)
2. Systweak Anti-Malware
Systweak Anti-Malware is a dedicated malware scanning and removal software for MacOS. Just like Malwarebytes, Systweak Anti-Malware scans for malware, rootkits, viruses, and adware in your hard disk and system memory. Once it finds a threat, it automatically quarantines it. If you know that Systweak Anti-Malware quarantined a false positive, you can restore the file or app with just a single click. For regular, deep, or custom scans, you can create custom schedules.
If you know a file or folder to be safe, you can exclude them from scanning avoiding any possible false positives by adding them to the exclude list. Of course, Systweak Anti-Malware always runs in the background and protects your Mac system from malware and PUPs in real-time. Other features of the software include start-up scan, memory scan, and beginner friendly user interface.
So, if you unsatisfied or looking for a good alternative for Malwarebytes you should try Systweak Anti-Malware.
Download Systweak Anti-Malware ($40)
3. Bitdefender
Bitdefender is another popular software to protect your mac from various threats like malware, virus, trojans, adware, spyware, unwanted software, and much more. The best thing about Bitdefender is that apart from protecting you from regular threats, it can actively scan in multiple layers and protect your system from ransomware. Other than that, Bitdefender can also keep an eye on cross-platform threats so that you don’t unintentionally spread malware, virus, or other infected files to your friends, colleagues or family.
Since Bitdefender always runs in the background, it can block any and all threats in real-time. Of course, Bitdefender also scans your system occasionally. If needed, you can create custom schedules with various configurations and scan settings. Bitdefender also has other features like backup protection, safe files, parental controls, secure shopping protection, etc.
Simply put, if you need a full-fledged software that can do much more than blocking and removing malware then give Bitdefender a try.
Download Bitdefender ($50 – $70 according to the version you choose)
4. Avast
Just like Bitdefender, Avast is not just an anti-malware software, it is a anti-virus software that can scan and protect your system from a wide range of threats. In fact, if you’ve ever searched for a anti-virus software, you should have definitely heard about Avast.
Using Avast you can regularly scan your system and create your own schedules to better protect your system. Along with anti-malware security, Avast can also protect your system from infected emails, unprotect WiFi network, and ransomware. Other features of the software include real-time protection, detailed security reports, browser protection, ability to shield you from dangerous downloads and PUPs, etc.
As good as the software is, while using Avast, you should be ready for a little bit of performance dip, at least, that is my experience while using Avast. Other than that, Avast is a pretty good and reputed software to protect Mac system from online and offline threats.
Download Avast (free, $70 for pro version)
5. AVG
AVG is yet another popular software that can protect you from malware, viruses, trojans, adware, and other threats. The good thing about AVG is that you can scan your system for threats related to Mac, Windows, and Android so that you don’t spread viruses or malware to other systems. Also, thanks to the simple and minimal design, using AVG to scan or create scanning schedules is pretty easy and straightforward. Moreover, unlike Avast, AVG always runs in the background and provides real-time protection for free.
As good as it is, when you try to download AVG from the official site, you will be redirected to the CNET website. So, be careful while installing it on your system as CNET has a habit of bundling adware and other toolbars along with the software you are trying to install.
If you are looking for all-around protection with real-time threat analysis and blocking then you should go with AVG.
Download AVG (free)
6. Sophos Home
Another popular opinion amongst Mac users which is more than just an Anti-Malware. Sophos Home comes with a bunch of extra features including a live chat support.
Sophos offers features like Anti-virus and ransomware security along with anti-malware protection. The programme also lets you remotely manage your devices. Yes ‘Device(s)’, Sophos home can be used in up to 10 devices for the paid version and 3 devices for the free version. Doesn’t end here, Sophos Home also lets you put on parental controls so that none of your devices reach the unprotected side of Web.
Download Sophos Home (30 day trial, $27 yearly for premium)
Wrapping Up: Best Anti Malware for Mac
If you are looking for a dedicated anti-malware software that plays well with other antivirus and firewall software then go with Malwarebytes. As a premium option, you can also try Systweak Anti-Malware. If you are looking for a full-fledged anti-virus software that can extend the protection to viruses, adware, ransomware, and other threats then go with AVG as it provides real-time protection for free. You can also try Bitdefender.
In general, if you know what you are doing on the Internet and don’t download the cracked software or porn, you’ll probably don’t need an anti-virus and/or anti-malware software. That said, if you don’t consider yourself tech savvy or if you are buying a computer for your parents, it’s a good idea to have an anti-malware installed.
That’s for now. If you think I missed any of your favorite anti-malware software then command below and share it with me. It will also help other Mac users.
Read: Top 10 Free Portable Anti-Malware Software to Have on Your Pen Drive
The modern era is revolving around the technology as every person now depends on the technology to complete the day by day task quickly and efficiently. The life without Internet and smartphone is like Food without Salt. We cannot survive without the help of technology.
Apparently, the Internet has now become the key to the digital world and browsers are the backbone of the internet. One such Internet browser about which today we’re going to discuss is Avast SafeZone Browser.
Well, most of you have ever noticed that your PC has Avast Secure Browser pre-installed on it? Or you might hear about that from your fellow friends, and now you want to download this browser? Recently, Avast has launched its Avast SafeZone Browser, which keeps your browsing environment secure. It eliminates any threat and prevents your system from intrusion.
Quick Overlook
What is Avast SafeZone Browser?
Avast Secure Browser which is formerly known as Avast SafeZone Browser is a web browser that is designed and developed to focus on Internet Security and Privacy. Primarily, it is based on Chromium; however, it was subsequently found to contain a severe flaw not present in Chromium itself.
Initially, when Avast Secure Browser started, it is bundled with paid versions of Avast Antivirus. However, in March 2016, Avast started bundling with the free version as well. Moreover, the Avast Secure Browser was initially called as “SafeZone” before being revamped and named as “Avast Secure Browser” in 2018.
You’ll be amazed to know that before revamp and rename, the Avast SafeZone Browser was similar to Opera Browser.
Salient Features of Avast SafeZone Browser
The Avast SafeZone Browser comes with remarkable features which offers one of the most secured internet surfing. Now the best thing is that all the features of the browser are present in the simple navigation tray. This will allow you to quickly toggle or operate the adding and the features that come embedded with the browser.
Here are some of the best Features offers by Avast SafeZone Browser:-
1. Integrated Secure Browser
After all the Avast Secure Browser is integrated into the Avast Antivirus; therefore, there are no worries that can cause you problems. Moreover, all the threats get eradicate as the browser works with the antivirus.
In case you have installed any Antivirus then also the Avast Browser can make your work in a safe and secure environment.
2. Avast Bank Mode
The Avast Bank Mode is a browsing mode that purportedly protects the user against “a potentially hijacked host or network, as well as prevents key loggers and network-based hackers from capturing any personal data.
The Bank Mode offered by Avast automatically activated whenever it detects that the user has reached a banking website or any payment page. The Avast Bank Mode runs from an alternate desktop which is allegedly isolated from other processes.
3. Flash Block
The next exciting feature offered by Avast SafeZone Browser is it boosts up the security level of Internet browsing. The browser mainly blocks the flash player to work, and by doing this, it substantially eliminates the slow and vulnerable feature of the browser.
4. Stealth Mode
Another Stealth Mode of the browser helps you to Surf Web without leaving any trace on your local drives like cookies or history. This is also available in Chrome via Ctrl + Shift + N which is known as Incognito Mode.
5. Anti Tracking
The Anti Tracking feature of the Avast Browser helps you get to save against the trackers and therefore eliminates the chance of getting go tagging. However, this particular feature is offered by Chrome Browser as well.
The good thing is the Anti Tracking mode is pre-activated in Avast Browser.
6. Adblock
Ads are one of the most irritating things which could ever happen while surfing the internet. But with the Avast Secure Browser Adblock feature, you can block all the Website ads easily as well as quickly.
7. Password Manager
A password manager allows you to choose among the passwords which you want to use. With the password manager in Avast SafeZone Browser, you can quickly create the new and more secure passwords without any risk of intrusion.
Avast SafeZone Browser – Video Downloader Feature
Another innovative feature that comes with Avast Secure Browser is the integrated video downloader. It lets you download videos which is available for free from YouTube or any other network. Further, you can select the resolution, size, and format of the video which you wish to download.
Now if you want to download the video with Avast Browser, then you have to hover over, and an orange download icon will appear. Tap on it and video will start downloading right on to your system, and further you can play it anytime you want. Also, if you’re offline then also the downloaded video can be played.
How to Download Avast SafeZone Browser?
Well, if you have already downloaded the Avast SafeZone Browser, then it will automatically update once the new version comes out. Although if you have not yet installed the browsers yet, then there is no way to get it as of now.
Here are the methods which will help you successfully get Avast Secure Browser free download.
Step 1. Open Avast Official Website and search for Avast SafeZone Browser.
Step 2. Download the file on your PC.
Step 3. Once it is downloaded successfully, merely install the browser and start surfing the Internet securely.
Make sure to give all the permissions to download the browser on your PC. Moreover, you’ll get an Avast Antivirus automatically installed on your system.
you can download safe zone here – Download Avast secure
How to Block the installation of a SafeZone Browser?
Case I
When you install the Avast Antivirus, apparently the Avast SafeZone Browser will also install on your system. So, to avoid the installation of the Avast SafeZone Browser, you need to block the installation of the SafeZone browser.
However, if Avast, later on, decides to push the browser installation anyway, then, in that case, you have to follow the given below steps:-
1. As soon as you see the first setup page, hit the customize button. You can find it below the big orange ‘install’ button on the page.
2. Now, you can see the page which displays all the additional components that Avast will install on your system.
3. Simply uncheck the Avast Secure Browser box and move on.
4. You can even uncheck any component that you don’t need for example SecureLine or Mail Shield.
This method will only help you in Blocking the installation of Avast SafeZone Browser! If the Avast Browser already installed or forced installed on your system then follow the next method.
Remove Avast SafeZone
Case II
In case the Avast push the Browser installation, and it will successfully install on your Windows PC then, in that case, follow these steps:-
1.Open the Control Panel by hitting the Windows+Pause button.
2. Once opened, select “Control Panel Home” and on the screen that opens ‘Uninstall a Program.’
3.Right-click on the Avast Free Antivirus a context menu with options opens – Uninstall & Change. Tap on the Change and then left-click on the Avast entry. You have to pick the change from the menu at the top.
4. A page will open with three options Update, Repair, and Change. All you have to do is select the change option.
5. Again a page will open where you have to locate for the SafeZone Browser and uncheck the box next to it. Also, if you want to remove any other component do the same. Click on change so that your PC will start removing the application.
Note: Please note that you’ll receive a message “The product was updated Successfully” message afterward.
6.Restart your system so that all the changes completely take place.
How to Update Avast SafeZone Browser?
When the SafeZone Browser was launched, it was meant for users to carry out private transactions online. Moreover, it comes with features like video downloader, password manager, ad blockers and much more.
Now, if you’re not able to update the Avast Browser, it will start creating issues during your browsing sessions. So, to get rid of the online threats you have to update your Avast SafeZone Browser download software. Apart from all these things the developers of the Avast SafeZone Browser say that it is much more advanced as it comprises of necessary security fixes.
Here is the step by step guide which will help you to update your SafeZone Browser:-
1.Open the SafeZone Browser and click on the ‘Menu.’ Select ‘Settings’ and then select ‘Update’ from the left pane of the Window.
You can see the current version of the SafeZone Browser as well as its release date from the right side.
2. The panel which is showing you the current version of the browser under that you can see a message notification that states that a “New Avast version is available.”
3. Click on the update button to download and install the Avast SafeZone Browser or Avast Secure Browser on your system.
Further, you can also search for the relevant executable file (.exe) of this Avast Secure Program and install it manually on your device.
Note: Make sure when you tap on the update button, you don’t need to remove the current program of your SafeZone Browser.
Benefits of Updating Avast Browser
Well, if you have successfully installed the latest version of the Avast Browser, you can check out the following benefits of the Avast SafeZone Browser.
1.Ad Blocker:- Prevent showing up annoying ads.
2.Advanced Protection:- Protection against Key-loggers, Viruses, & Malware.
3.Offers in-built video downloader to download videos from various websites.
4. Prevents from phishing attacks.
5. The Avast Bank Mode for a secure transaction.
How to Import Bookmarks from other Browsers to Avast SafeZone Browser?
Here is the guide which will help you import Bookmarks from other Browsers to Avast SafeZone Browser.
1. Tap on the “Avast Secure Browser” icon on your desktop to open the program.
2. You will see a tri-icon (three-dots) in the top-right corner and select ‘Bookmarks >> Import Bookmarks & Settings.’
3. Select Google Chrome from the drop-down menu from the screen opens in the browser.
4. Select the browsers which you want to import from Google Chrome and hit Import.
5. Click ‘Done’ to successfully import data from the browsers.
Note:- Make sure you have select only those browsers from where you want to select.
READ How To Fix Service Host Superfetch High Disk Usage Issue
Performance Comparison Test – Avast SafeZone Browser V/S Google Chrome V/S Mozilla Firefox V/S Internet Explorer
Here is the in-depth comparison of Avast Secure Browser with some of the best and popular internet browsers including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, as well as Internet Explorer.
Well, the results are surprisingly mind-blowing, and you’ll be amazed after knowing them.
1. Speed Test Comparison
![Avast Avast](/uploads/1/2/4/1/124107212/649852852.png)
One of the significant differences in the speed of the browser of Avast SafeZone is that it has the same speed as that of Google Chrome & Mozilla Firefox. However, Firefox came out to be a bit slower than the Avast Browser in terms of speed.
Moreover, Internet Explorer is the slowest among all the three browsers.
2. Real-Time Environment
After all, testing is different from the real-time environment and talking of Avast Secure Browser, and the loading depends on the size of the page and the connection speed of the page.
The real-time environment of the browser is as equal as chrome in terms of speed.
3, Loading Time
The Loading Speed of the web pages is also influenced by the Advertisement and the types of media that are available on the webpage.
Since Avast Secure Browser comes with a pre-installed Adblocker; therefore, it blocks all the advertisements and makes the webpage load quickly with high speeds.
The browser is an excellent way to surf with high-speed Networks.
4. Blocking of Flash Files
The reason why Avast SafeZone Browser is quite speedy and nice is that it blocks all the flash files to load and makes the webpage to load faster. Well, if you’re using Google Chrome then here is the good news for you that Chrome is also going to block the flash file this year.
5. Pay Mode
One of the unique and innovative features of the SafeZone Browser is Pay Mode. The paid mode radically opens any page in a virtual environment that is entirely isolated from your system which will help you prevent intrusions. Moreover, your system will not be infected if you visit some ‘Shady’ websites.
How to manage Avast Bank Mode?
Once the Bank Mode is open, you can easily switch back to Secure Browser, add bookmarks to the taskbar, or either turn off Bank Mode entirely.
Here is the step by step guide to managing Bank Mode:-
1. Tap the’ Switchback’ button as shown in the figure.
2. You can see the yellow ‘Bank Mode’ button in the bottom-right corner of the Secure Browser screen to return to Bank Mode’s virtual desktop.
In case you want to Turn Off Bank Mode follow these steps:-
1. Tap on the red ‘Power’ button which you can see in the bottom right corner of the Bank Mode virtual desktop.
2. Click on ’Yes’ on the Avast information dialog to confirm.
Top 3 Best Alternatives to Avast SafeZone
Well, if you’re not satisfied with the Avast Secure Browser and looking forward to installing any other Internet Browser which is safe and works quite well then here we have featured the best alternatives to Avast SafeZone Browser.
1. Mozilla Firefox
The Mozilla Firefox is one of the most popular and best all-time internet browser. It boasts fast page loads, quick navigation and allows you for secure browsing.
The Mozilla Firefox stops the download of malicious and warned of more dangerous websites than any other popular web browser. Now, when it comes down to personal preference, then Mozilla Firefox does a slightly better job in speed tests. It also proves to be a bit more secure than Google Chrome.
Pros:-
- Blocks Malware Reliability.
- Quickly Navigates the web.
- It allows you to do private web browsing.
Cons:-
- The landing page of Mozilla Firefox has a lot of ads and suggested links.
2. Google Chrome
Google Chrome! The name doesn’t need any introduction. If you use Google Chrome on multiple devices, then logging in to your account will give you full fledge access to your documents which you saved in Google Docs, Gmail messages, as well as your bookmarks.
Moreover, Google Chrome lets you set icons on your toolbar so you can quickly get to the pages you visit most often. It does stop any malicious file, including ransomware and Trojans, from opening and infecting our computer. The best thing about the Google Chrome browser is it supports all the platforms and offers you to keep your online activity private.
Pros:-
- Google Chrome is compatible with all platforms and devices.
- Synchronization makes settings available on every device.
Cons:-
- The chrome uses the large program files, and the browser uses more system data.
- The navigation isn’t fast in the Desktop version.
3. Safari Browser {Macintosh Browser}
If you’re not already familiar with Mac computers, then you might not be able to customize this browser with toolbars; however, you still get tabbed browsing like Firefox as well as Chrome. Safari lets you tag your favorite sites, and even you can save your articles or parts of websites to read afterward.
Moreover, these browsers are by default for iPhone, iPads and therefore syncs all your data to the iCloud account. The best part of this browser is that it has live support for any queries or suggestions. However, the Safari browser doesn’t stop malicious downloads; therefore, you have to depend on the Mac Antivirus program.
Pros:-
- Designed & Developed for Mac devices.
- Quickly loads webpages.
- Offers telephone support as well.
Cons:-
- Not compatible with Windows operating systems.
- It doesn’t customize your toolbars.
FAQ’s
Q1. Can I make Avast Secure Browser as a default browser?
A1. Yup! You can make Avast browser as your default browser and to do that you need to follow the steps:-
Open Avast Browser >> Go to Settings >> Tap on “Make Avast SafeZone my default browser”.
This process will make Avast Secure Browser your default browser!
Q2. Where do my bookmarks save?
A2. While using Avast SafeZone Browser, you may have to access your bookmarks; however, you can’t be able to them anywhere. So, to find your bookmarks and manage them follow these steps:-
Tap on Bookmarks icon >> Click on the top-right corner and open All Settings >> Bookmarks.
Q3. Is Avast SafeZone Browser Safe or not?
A3. Well, Avast SafeZone Browser is entirely safe to use. Moreover, it is one of the most secure browsers available on the web. Also, if you’re using the Windows 10, then surely Avast Secure Browser is the safest browser available for you!
Note:The Avast SafeZone Browser is compatible with both Windows 7 as well as Windows 8 versions.
Q4. Avast SafeZone Browser is not working. Can you please tell me what could be the possible solution?
A4. Avast SafeZone Browser is not working means that your browser needs an update. So, all you have to do is download the new Avast Secure Browser. Also, we have mentioned the method above which will help you to update Avast SafeZone Browser.
Q5. Is it true that Avast Cleanup Premium has destroyed the SafeZone Browser?
A5. In recent times, the SafeZone browser was removed pending a new version of Avast Browser. However, the company has fixed the issues related to the cleanup premium.
Q6. Avast SafeZone Browser won’t start? What should I do?
A6. Here is the possible repair:-
Go to Control Panel >> Add/Remove Programs >> Locate Avast SafeZone Browser >> Right-click on it and select ‘Repair’ >> Follow the instruction and Reboot.
Q7. I am getting issues with Bank Mode. What could be the possible solution?
A7. If you’re experiencing issues with Bank Mode here are the following steps:-
1. First, make sure you have downloaded the latest Avast Program Version.
2. Restart your system and repeat the step again and again until it gets fixed.
3. Well, in case nothing works, try again to install Avast Secure Browser on your PC.
Final Words
Avast Secure Browser is a brand new browser that is based on Chromium. It is fast and comes with privacy-enhancing features and settings that surely improvise privacy up to a point. Although, Avast is off to a good start with its brand new Avast Secure Browser which offers better functionality than the company’s SafeZone Browser.
Now, to improvise the security and features the company has to continuously give updates so that it will not fall behind the Chromium release cycle. Moreover, they need not leave security issues unpatched for too long after patches become available.
Unfortunately, the Avast SafeZone Browser can’t be installed as a standalone and you can install it as a part of Avast Antivirus. Even you can’t add any custom plugins or add-ons; however, you can use the pre-installed one.
Moreover, Avast and Comodo are not the only security vendors who have created safe browsers based on Chromium. So, in case you’re using any other Chromium-based supported browsers do let us know in the comment section.
We would like to hear from you how things have gone for you. Also, tell us the errors and changes that you have made. Any suggestions are always. Welcome!