McAfee® Total Protection

About McAfee Total Protection

McAfee Total Protection is a comprehensive antivirus and security suite for Windows and macOS, providing real-time malware protection, privacy controls, and identity theft protection. Owned by Trellix (formerly McAfee/Intel Security), the software offers an unlimited device license option and integrates secure browsing with system optimization tools.

Key Features

• Real-Time Threat Protection: Continuous scanning against viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware
• Firewall Protection: Monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic
• Secure Web Browsing: Block malicious websites and phishing attempts
• Password Manager: Encrypted storage and autofill across devices
• Unlimited Devices Option: Available, covers all your devices under one subscription
• Safe Browsing: Block suspicious downloads and malicious websites
• Privacy Controls: Monitor data collection, privacy dashboard
• File Shredder: Securely delete sensitive files beyond recovery
• Parental Controls: Monitor and restrict children’s online activities
• Regular Updates: Daily virus definition updates

System Requirements

Windows: Windows 10/11 (64-bit), 2GB RAM, 500MB storage

macOS: macOS 10.13 or later, 2GB RAM, 500MB storage

Pricing

McAfee Total Protection: $39.99-79.99/year. Pricing varies by region and promotion.

Unlimited Devices: Premium tier covers all your devices (phones, tablets, computers)

Independent Test Results

McAfee scores moderately in independent testing. AV-Test ratings are respectable but not as high as Kaspersky or Bitdefender.

Installation Guide

Windows: Download from official site, run installer, create McAfee account, enable protections.

macOS: Download DMG, install, grant necessary permissions in System Preferences.

Advantages (Pros)

• Comprehensive protection suite
• Unlimited devices option for households
• Password manager included
• Affordable pricing for basic plan
• Daily virus definition updates
• Family controls included
• File shredder for secure deletion

Disadvantages (Cons)

• Moderate system performance impact
• Not as high detection rates as Kaspersky/Bitdefender
• Some users report false positives
• Windows-primary focus (limited macOS support)
• Customer support has mixed reviews
• Frequent upsell of premium features
• Can be resource-intensive during scans

Alternatives

Kaspersky Total Security: Better detection rates, more advanced features, higher price.

Bitdefender Total Security: Similar price, lighter system footprint, excellent detection.

Norton 360 Deluxe: Similar features, US-based company, better Windows integration.

Windows Defender (Free): Built-in protection, adequate for average users.

Who Should Use McAfee

Best for: Windows users wanting comprehensive protection on a budget, families with multiple devices, users wanting password management included.

Download McAfee Total Protection

Current Version: 2024

File Size: 300-400MB