Reading is great. Tracking makes it stick. Sign up for a free Dashboard to tick off tasks and see your Security Score.
Get my free Dashboard →Enable real-time virus protection on all devices
Make sure a reputable antivirus / anti-malware tool with real-time scanning is active on every computer you use.
Why this matters
Real-time protection catches and quarantines malware before it can do damage — including ransomware that would otherwise encrypt all your files.
How to do it
- Windows: Windows Security (built-in) provides good protection at no extra cost
- Search for 'Windows Security' in Start
- Click 'Virus & threat protection' — ensure real-time protection is On
- Mac: macOS has built-in XProtect. Consider Malwarebytes Free for extra scanning
- Android/iOS: keep the OS updated — this is the primary malware defence on mobile
Need a more detailed walkthrough?
Our step-by-step guide explains each action in full detail, with confirmation steps and related tasks.
View full step-by-step guide →Cyber Essentials framework
This task falls under the Malwarecontrol, one of five areas assessed in the UK's Cyber Essentials scheme. Completing it counts toward your Cyber Essentials alignment. Create a free account to track your progress across all five areas.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to buy antivirus software for Windows?
No. Windows comes with Microsoft Defender, which provides solid real-time protection at no cost. Most independent security tests rate it as comparable to paid alternatives. You do not need to pay for a third-party antivirus unless you want extra features.
Do Mac computers need antivirus?
Macs are less commonly targeted than Windows PCs, but they are not immune. macOS includes built-in protection (XProtect and Gatekeeper) that updates automatically. For most home users this is adequate. Malwarebytes Free is a useful extra tool for scanning if you are concerned.
Does my phone need antivirus software?
For iPhones, antivirus apps provide little real benefit: the operating system already sandboxes apps tightly. For Android phones, keeping the OS and apps updated and only installing apps from the Google Play Store is more effective than any antivirus app.
What is the difference between a scan and real-time protection?
A scan checks your device for threats at a single point in time. Real-time protection continuously monitors your device, catching malware as soon as it tries to run, rather than after the fact. Real-time protection is what matters most; scheduled scans are a useful supplement.
Track your security score for free
Create a free Cyber Nova AI account to tick off tasks like this one, see your Security Score, and stay on top of what you've done and what's still to do.
Start your free security check