Then, click the Allow button next to the System software message (see screenshot below). Click on the ‘lock’ icon in the bottom left corner and enter your password when prompted. This will open the Security & Privacy section of the System Preferences.

Click the Open Security Preferences button when you see that message.

If you’re using macOS Catalina or Big Sur, you’ll get a warning message about a System Extension being blocked.

Click the Allow button when asked if program can be run to determine whether Avast will work on your Mac.

DMG file and double-click Install Avast Security.pkg Once the download has completed, open the.

Installing and setting up Avast isn’t particularly complicated, it’s just a bit more involved than a regular “drag to the Applications folder” type of installation.

Installing & Setting Up Antivirus Software With all of that said – if what you’re looking to accomplish is to scan your Mac for viruses and malware, Avast (and this guide) is for you. It offers more features than Avast and it’s less expensive. If you’re going to shell out your hard earned money, I would recommend Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac. Ransomware on a Mac is still quite rare, but it does happen, and if you regularly install software that doesn’t come from the Mac App Store the odds of being infected go up. However, the free version does not offer ransomware protection.

This guide uses the free version of Avast Security – which includes a full antivirus/malware scanner. None of the free apps offer complete coverage. If you have critical, can’t-live-without stuff on your Mac, it’s worth paying for security software. Here’s how I feel about Mac security software – This detailed guide will show you how to install, configure and use free software to scan your Mac for viruses, malware and spyware.

How to scan my mac for virus