Antivirus: Do You Actually Need It?
(aka: The annual tradition of Googling “Do Macs get viruses?” right after your screen freezes.)
Do you really need antivirus in 2025? If you’re using a Windows PC or a Mac at home, you’ve probably wondered whether antivirus software is still necessary—or if those scary pop-ups are just trying to sell you something. Between built-in security tools, constant updates, and increasingly sneaky online scams, it’s hard to know what actually protects your computer and what just slows it down. Let’s clear it up in plain English, without the fear-mongering or tech jargon.
Do You Even Need Antivirus in 2025?
Short answer: Yes. But also… probably not the way you think.
Here’s the breakdown by device:
Windows
Yes, you need antivirus.
But good news: you already have one.
Windows Defender is built in, turned on, and surprisingly excellent now. This isn’t 2009 Defender. This version actually does stuff.
Mac
Yes-ish.
Your Mac is safer by design, but malware developers have finally discovered that people with MacBooks also have credit cards, so the party has moved over.
Chromebook
Honestly? You’re living inside digital bubble wrap.
You’re fine unless you try really, really hard to break things.
The Real Threat Isn’t “Viruses” — It’s the Internet
Modern malware doesn’t look like that 1998 dancing baby GIF that crashes your system.
The danger now?
Fake password reset emails
Scam sites pretending to be legit stores
Malicious Chrome extensions
Shady “free downloads” that come with a free side of regret
Antivirus can help, but it won’t stop you from clicking on “URGENT: Your Package Is Delayed!! Click Here!!”
Today, your own clicks are the biggest threat.
When Built-In Tools Are Enough
Most people with:
A Windows PC
A Mac
A pinch of common sense
A browser without 47 mysterious extensions
…are already covered.
Windows Defender is excellent.
macOS has great built-in protections.
You don’t need a $60/year subscription just to feel safe.
When You Might Need More Protection
Extra antivirus is helpful if:
Kids use your computer like a casino slot machine
You download lots of games, apps, or “free” software
Your browser extensions have names like “CouponZilla Ultra Max Pro”
You fall for “It looked legit!” scams twice a year (or twice a week)
You frequently Google “free movie streaming no signup HD definitely not illegal”
If you recognized yourself or someone you love… it might be time to upgrade.
Everyday Digital Safety Rules (That Actually Matter)
These are the boring but effective moves that keep malware away:
Don’t download apps from weird third-party sites
Keep your system updated
Don’t click anything that feels urgent, panicky, or chaotic
Review your browser extensions
Don’t install software that promises to “boost your PC” — it won’t
Good habits beat fancy antivirus every single time.
Want the Deeper Stuff?
If you want the full breakdown — the practical, no-BS guide to securing your home tech — that’s what I cover in the Extended version of this issue.
Paid subscribers get:
Which paid antivirus apps are actually worth it
Which “features” you should turn OFF immediately
A complete step-by-step 2025 Home Security Checklist
Whether your iPhone or Android actually needs antivirus
Three curated setups:
The Normal Human Setup
The Chaos Household Setup
The Late-Night Downloader Setup
If you want the complete playbook, the Extended issue is waiting for you.
Most people don’t need a complicated antivirus strategy — just better habits and fewer chaotic clicks.
— JJ – The Chief Rebooter.