ClamXAV
Antivirus software
Endpoint protection software
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
Take the quiz to check if ClamXAV and its alternatives fit your requirements.
$29.95 per year
Free Trial
Free version unavailable
Small
Medium
Large
- Arts, entertainment, and recreation
- Education and training
- Media and communications
What is ClamXAV
ClamXAV is an antivirus application for macOS that scans files and folders for malware using the open-source ClamAV engine. It is commonly used by individuals and small teams that need on-demand scanning, scheduled scans, and checks of downloads or email attachments on Mac endpoints. The product focuses on signature-based detection and integrates with macOS features such as Finder for contextual scanning. It is typically positioned as a lightweight Mac scanner rather than a full endpoint security suite with centralized policy and response workflows.
macOS-focused on-demand scanning
ClamXAV provides manual and scheduled scanning designed specifically for macOS endpoints. It supports scanning of user-selected locations and common file sources such as downloads and email attachments. For organizations with Mac-heavy environments, it can serve as a straightforward scanner without requiring a broader security platform.
Uses ClamAV signature engine
ClamXAV is built around the ClamAV malware signature database and scanning engine. This can be useful for detecting known threats and for cross-platform file hygiene when Macs exchange files with Windows or Linux systems. The reliance on a widely used open-source engine can also simplify understanding of detection approach and update mechanics.
Finder integration for workflows
The product integrates with Finder to enable contextual scanning actions from the macOS file manager. This reduces friction for end users who want to scan specific files or folders during routine work. It can be practical for ad-hoc checks without deploying a heavier endpoint management console.
Limited EDR-style capabilities
ClamXAV primarily focuses on antivirus scanning and does not operate as a full endpoint detection and response tool. Capabilities such as behavioral detection, automated containment, threat hunting, and incident response workflows are typically outside its scope. Teams needing centralized investigation and remediation features may require additional tooling.
Less suited for centralized management
Compared with endpoint protection platforms that provide multi-device policy control and reporting, ClamXAV is generally oriented toward local Mac usage. Organizations that need fleet-wide visibility, role-based administration, and compliance reporting may find it insufficient on its own. This can increase operational effort when managing many endpoints.
Signature-based detection tradeoffs
Because the product relies heavily on signature-based scanning, it is best at identifying known malware rather than novel or fileless techniques. Detection effectiveness can depend on timely signature updates and the presence of identifiable artifacts. Environments facing targeted attacks may need complementary controls beyond signature scanning.
Plan & Pricing
| Plan | Price | Key features & notes |
|---|---|---|
| Home | £19.99 / $29.95 per year (protects up to 3 Macs) | Malware, adware & ransomware protection; automatic background scans, scheduled scans, infection removal; updates and email support included. |
| Family | £39.99 / $59.95 per year (protects up to 9 Macs) | Same features as Home; intended for households with multiple Macs (best value). |
| Business & Teams | Price varies — annual licensing with volume discounts; contact sales / volume pricing | Includes Home features plus CLI control, lockdown of scanning preferences, easy deployment, integration with Xenia Management Console; volume discounts for 2+ licences; pricing not posted directly on site. |
| Student | 30% off (price depends on plan; student subscription valid for one Mac only) | Student / teacher discount available via Education Store; eligibility required. |
