Do Apple’s macOS Devices Need Security Software?

When it comes to cybersecurity, macOS is seen by many as a role model. Some Apple fans might even view their fruit-labeled computer as immune to attacks by cybercriminals, with Apple itself considering built-in macOS security measures adequate for the threats targeting it. But is it really bulletproof?

The SolarWinds supply-chain attack, vulnerabilities in Microsoft Exchange and countless ransomware incidents are just some of the most prominent cyberattacks that made headlines in the early part of 2021... with new ones appearing almost daily. There is one thing all of them have in common: the security problems usually concern Microsoft systems. In comparison, Apple’s macOS pops up only in a handful of cases each year.

This may be due to the fact that Windows remains the most used operating system on corporate endpoints and servers. Nevertheless, Apple has been slowly but steadily increasing its market share, and as the number of devices using Apple operating systems rises, so does interest from cybercriminals.

In business environments, Macs are popular among creative professionals such as graphic designers and video creators, and also in desktop publishing. For personal use, MacBooks or iMacs may be preferred due to the intuitive and user-friendly interface of the operating system and applications, and the devices' high-end design.

But how secure really is macOS? Let’s take a closer look.