Malwarebytes

by Malwarebytes · Security & privacy

FreemiumWindowsMac

Malware scanner and remover; free on-demand scans, paid real-time protection.

Official download from malwarebytes.com (opens in a new tab)

Opens malwarebytes.com, Malwarebytes's own site. No mirror, no bundle.

Overview

What is Malwarebytes?

Malwarebytes finds and removes malware, adware and potentially unwanted programs. The free version scans on demand after the trial ends; real-time protection is paid. Windows' built-in Microsoft Defender is enough for many people.

Key features

  • On-demand malware scans
  • Adware and PUP removal
  • Real-time protection (paid)
  • Browser Guard extension

Best for

  • Second-opinion scans
  • Cleaning adware after a bad download
  • Helping family members' PCs

Install

How to install Malwarebytes

  1. 1Open the official Malwarebytes download page on malwarebytes.com.
  2. 2Pick the build for your system (Windows, Mac; check x64, ARM or Apple silicon where offered).
  3. 3Run the installer and read each screen; decline anything you did not ask for.
  4. 4Keep it updated from the app's own updater or your package manager.

Install from the command line

  • Windows · winget

    winget install --id Malwarebytes.Malwarebytes -e --source winget

  • Mac · Homebrew

    brew install --cask malwarebytes

Package IDs checked against the public winget, Homebrew and Flathub repositories on 1 Nov 2026. Build a script for several apps.

Safety

Download Malwarebytes safely

  • Check the domain

    The real download lives on malwarebytes.com. Look-alike domains and search ads are the most common trap.

  • Skip mirrors

    Download portals can wrap installers in adware or old versions. You never need them for this app.

  • Verify if you can

    If the publisher lists a checksum, compare it with our in-browser checker before running the file.

  • Watch the installer

    Untick extras, browser changes or trials you did not ask for.

Open the checksum checker

Alternatives

Malwarebytes alternatives

Other security & privacy apps, closest platform match first.

All security

FAQ

Malwarebytes questions

Where can I download Malwarebytes safely?

Download Malwarebytes only from Malwarebytes's official site at malwarebytes.com. Avoid mirror and "download portal" sites, which can bundle extra software with the installer.

Is Malwarebytes free?

Malwarebytes has a free plan with limits, and paid plans or upgrades for more features. Check malwarebytes.com for current pricing.

Does Malwarebytes work on Windows and Mac?

Malwarebytes is available for Windows, Mac. Check Malwarebytes's download page for exact system requirements and whether your processor (x64, ARM or Apple silicon) is supported.

Can I install Malwarebytes from the command line?

Yes, with winget on Windows (winget install --id Malwarebytes.Malwarebytes -e); Homebrew on Mac (brew install --cask malwarebytes). Package managers fetch the publisher's files and make updates easy.

What are good alternatives to Malwarebytes?

See the alternatives section on this page and the full security & privacy list on AltFTool, which shows each app's licence and platforms side by side.