Antivirus protects the computer you use to log in to your accounts, and any Windows server you run. Here is what we suggest.
On your USA RDP server (Windows Server)
- Use Microsoft Defender Antivirus, which comes with Windows Server. Keep it switched on and keep Windows Update running.
- Home antivirus products are usually made for Windows 10 and 11, not Windows Server. If you want a paid product on the server, choose a business or server edition and check the vendor's system requirements before you buy.
- Run only one antivirus at a time. Two together slow the server down and can block each other.
On your Windows computer
Microsoft Defender is built into Windows 10 and 11. For most people it is enough, as long as Windows is kept up to date. Paid products such as Bitdefender, Norton or McAfee add extras, for example a VPN or identity monitoring.
On your Mac
macOS has built-in malware protection that updates through Software Update. If you want an extra scanner, vendors such as Intego and Bitdefender make Mac versions.
Whatever you choose
- Keep your operating system and web browser up to date.
- Download software only from the vendor's own website.
- Keep a backup of important files somewhere other than the device itself.
