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Intego

Intego is a cybersecurity software company specializing in antivirus, firewall, and internet security solutions primarily designed for macOS and Apple devices, with additional offerings for Windows, originally founded in Paris, France in 1997 and headquartered in Austin, Texas.^[1]^[2]^[3]^[4] Since its inception, Intego has focused exclusively on protecting Mac users from malware, network threats, and privacy risks, releasing its first antivirus product that year and earning recognition as a pioneer in Apple-specific security.^[5]^[2] The company's product lineup includes the Mac Premium Bundle X9, which bundles real-time antivirus scanning via VirusBarrier, a personal firewall with NetBarrier, system optimization tools like Washing Machine, parental controls in ContentBarrier, and a privacy-focused VPN; it also offers standalone antivirus for Windows launched in 2020.^[6]^[1] In 2018, Intego was acquired by Kape Technologies, a global cybersecurity firm, enabling expanded development while maintaining its commitment to non-intrusive, privacy-respecting software that does not collect user data.^[1]^[5] Intego's software has received numerous awards for efficacy and user-friendliness from Mac-focused publications and independent labs, with lab tests in 2025 confirming high detection rates for macOS malware and effective firewall protections, though it lacks some advanced features like webcam monitoring found in competitors.^[5]^[3]^[7] The company reports protecting over 34 million users worldwide and blocking more than 56 million threats daily as of 2025, underscoring its role as a trusted leader in Mac security for nearly three decades.^[6]

Company overview

Founding and headquarters

Intego was co-founded in 1997 by Laurent Marteau, who served as the company's initial CEO, and Jean-Paul Florencio in Paris, France.^[8] The company was established as the first entity dedicated exclusively to developing security software for Macintosh systems, distinguishing itself from broader antivirus providers like Symantec and McAfee that also targeted PCs.^[9] In its inaugural year, Intego released Rival, its first antivirus product designed to protect Macintosh computers from emerging threats, initially available in French before broader distribution.^[10] Originally headquartered in Paris, Intego focused its early operations on the European market, capitalizing on growing awareness of Mac-specific vulnerabilities in the late 1990s.^[1] The company established offices in the United States starting in 2011, with locations in Seattle, Washington, and Austin, Texas. Following its acquisition by Kape Technologies in 2018 for $16 million, Intego's primary headquarters became based in Austin, Texas, as of 2025, while maintaining additional offices in Seattle, Washington; Paris, France; and Nagano, Japan.^[11]^[12]^[13] This supported Intego's global expansion beyond its European roots.^[2]

Mission and focus

Intego's primary mission is to make the Internet a safer place for Mac and Apple users by providing comprehensive cybersecurity solutions tailored exclusively for Macs, iOS, and other Apple devices, with a strong emphasis on ease-of-use and performance optimization.^[9]^[6] This focus stems from the company's recognition that Apple ecosystems require specialized protection against evolving digital threats, ensuring users can maintain productivity without compromise.^[9] The company specializes in addressing Mac-specific threats, such as malware, ransomware, and privacy risks, through real-time monitoring and protection mechanisms designed to neutralize dangers efficiently without impacting device performance.^[6]^[14] By prioritizing Apple platforms, Intego commits to delivering lightweight, intuitive defenses that integrate seamlessly with macOS and iOS, blocking millions of threats daily while optimizing system resources.^[6] Since its founding in 1997 as pioneers in Mac antivirus software, Intego has evolved its focus to encompass a broader range of security offerings, including firewalls, parental controls, and backups, while steadfastly avoiding multi-OS generality to maintain deep specialization in the Apple ecosystem.^[9] This progression reflects a dedication to adapting to internet threats over more than 25 years, always centering on comprehensive, Apple-centric protection.^[6] Intego primarily targets individual Mac users, families, and small businesses who seek non-intrusive, user-friendly security solutions that safeguard their devices without requiring advanced technical knowledge.^[9]^[6]

History

Early years (1997–2017)

Intego was founded in 1997 in Paris, France, by Jean-Paul Florencio and Laurent Marteau as a specialist in security software tailored exclusively for Macintosh computers.^[15] The company marked its early growth with the launch of NetBarrier in 1999, the first personal firewall designed to protect Mac users from unauthorized network access.^[16] This was followed by ContentBarrier in 2001, a pioneering parental control tool that filtered web content, monitored chats, and restricted application usage to create safer online environments for children.^[17] In 2003, Intego introduced Washing Machine, a system optimization utility that removed temporary files, caches, and browsing history to enhance Mac performance and reclaim disk space.^[18] Throughout the 2000s, Intego expanded from its French origins into the U.S. market, leveraging announcements at events like Macworld Expo in New York to build partnerships with distributors and gain traction among North American Mac users.^[16] The company earned accolades for its innovative Mac security offerings, including recognition from major publications for product quality and user-friendliness during this period.^[19] As Mac-specific threats proliferated in the late 2000s and early 2010s—including early Trojans like the 2006 Oompa-Loompa worm and persistent adware—Intego adapted by enhancing its detection capabilities and bundling tools for comprehensive protection.^[20] A pivotal moment came in 2012 with the Flashback Trojan outbreak, which infected hundreds of thousands of Macs; Intego's VirusBarrier antivirus detected the malware early via its real-time scanning, helping position the company as a leader in Mac antivirus defense.^[21] This era of adaptation culminated in the 2014 release of Mac Internet Security X8, a bundled suite integrating VirusBarrier antivirus and NetBarrier firewall to counter rising threats like cross-platform adware and Trojans.^[22] In 2015, Intego extended its reach into mobile security with Family Protector, an iOS app enabling parents to manage device usage, block apps, and monitor web activity on iPhones and iPads.^[23] By 2017, these milestones had solidified Intego's reputation for proactive Mac protection amid growing malware sophistication.^[24]

Acquisition and expansion (2018–present)

In July 2018, Kape Technologies PLC, a London-listed cybersecurity firm formerly known as Crossrider, acquired Intego from Bessemer Venture Partners for $16 million in cash.^[25]^[26] This acquisition integrated Intego into Kape's expanding portfolio of privacy and security tools, enabling broader global distribution and enhanced resources for product development while allowing Intego to maintain its focus on Apple ecosystem protection.^[11] Following the acquisition, Intego marked a key expansion by launching antivirus support for Windows in July 2020, extending its expertise beyond its traditional Mac and iOS exclusivity to address cross-platform needs in mixed-device environments.^[10] In the same year, the company updated its X9 product line—originally introduced in 2016—including bundles like Mac Premium Bundle X9 and Mac Internet Security X9, which featured improved real-time threat scanning capabilities compatible with macOS Big Sur and Apple Silicon M1 chips.^[27]^[28] By 2021, Intego further diversified its offerings with the launch of Intego Privacy Protection, a VPN service available for both macOS and Windows, which was subsequently bundled into premium security packages to provide encrypted browsing and privacy enhancements amid growing concerns over online tracking.^[1] This period also saw an increased emphasis on business solutions, including endpoint security tools like VirusBarrier X9 for enterprises, tailored to mitigate risks from remote work surges following the COVID-19 pandemic, with features for centralized management of Mac and Windows devices.^[29]^[30] In 2022, Intego celebrated its 25th anniversary, reflecting on its history as a pioneer in Mac security and committing to continued innovation in protecting Apple users.^[1] Under Kape's ownership, Intego shifted toward subscription-based models for its software, facilitating recurring updates and ongoing support, while introducing 24/7 customer assistance to bolster user trust and retention in a competitive cybersecurity landscape.^[31]^[6]

Products and services

Consumer software

Intego's consumer software lineup is designed for individual and family users, offering user-friendly protection tailored to personal devices. The core antivirus solution, VirusBarrier X9, delivers real-time scanning to detect and block malware targeting both macOS and Windows systems, including ransomware and other threats.^[32] It also incorporates a web shield that safeguards against phishing attempts by monitoring and blocking malicious websites during browsing.^[32] This component supports on-demand and scheduled scans, ensuring comprehensive coverage without significantly impacting system performance.^[33] Bundled offerings enhance VirusBarrier X9 with complementary tools for broader security and utility. Mac Internet Security X9 combines VirusBarrier X9 with NetBarrier X9, a two-way firewall that monitors network traffic, blocks unauthorized inbound connections, and prevents data exfiltration on Wi-Fi or wired networks.^[32] The firewall automatically adjusts rules based on location, such as home or public hotspots, to maintain optimal protection.^[32] For more comprehensive needs, the Mac Premium Bundle X9 integrates VirusBarrier X9 and NetBarrier X9 with additional utilities: ContentBarrier for parental controls, which enables custom user profiles, time limits on device usage, and monitoring of chat interactions to filter inappropriate content; Personal Backup for automated, bootable backups to external drives or other Macs; and Washing Machine for system cleanup, including junk file removal, duplicate detection, and desktop organization.^[33] Additional features in these bundles emphasize privacy and cross-device support. Premium packages include an integrated VPN for secure browsing and data encryption on public networks, while iOS compatibility is provided through VirusBarrier X9's ability to scan connected iPhones or iPads for malware in accessible areas, and Intego's separate Family Protector app for mobile parental controls.^[33] Following the 2018 acquisition, Intego extended these consumer tools to Windows devices, broadening accessibility beyond macOS.^[34] Pricing follows a subscription model, with options for single or multi-device licenses and a 30-day money-back guarantee in lieu of a free trial. For example, Mac Internet Security X9 is priced starting at $39.99 per year for 1 Mac, $69.99 for 3 Macs, and $89.99 for 5 Macs, while the Mac Premium Bundle X9 is priced at $69.99 annually covering up to 5 Macs.^[32]^[33]

Business solutions

Intego's business solutions emphasize endpoint security tailored for organizations relying on macOS devices, providing robust protection against malware and network threats while enabling efficient administration for IT teams. The core offering, Intego Endpoint Protection, delivers cloud-based centralized management for macOS endpoints through a unified dashboard, allowing administrators to oversee antivirus, firewall, and anti-malware deployments across multiple devices from a single interface.^[29] Intego Endpoint Protection is available in beta for cloud-based management as of 2025. This solution provides volume licensing options starting at five endpoints to support small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).^[29] VirusBarrier serves as the flagship antivirus and anti-malware component, offering real-time scanning and protection against Mac-specific threats, ransomware, spyware, and cross-platform PC malware to prevent inadvertent spread within mixed environments.^[35] Complementing this, NetBarrier provides advanced two-way firewall functionality for network security monitoring, blocking unauthorized inbound and outbound connections while allowing customizable rules for Wi-Fi and wired networks.^[36] These tools ensure low-overhead performance, making them suitable for creative industries where Mac fleets demand seamless operation without disrupting workflows.^[29] Deployment flexibility includes cloud-hosted options for Endpoint Protection, with scalability for growing fleets through dedicated account managers who assist IT admins in configuration and policy enforcement.^[29] Detailed reporting on threat detections and system status is accessible via the management console, aiding compliance monitoring without requiring on-premise infrastructure.^[29]

Reception and recognition

Independent reviews and testing

Intego's antivirus solutions have undergone rigorous evaluation by independent testing organizations, with notable performance in malware detection for macOS environments. In the 2024 Mac Security Test Series by AV-Comparatives, Intego achieved a 99.1% malware detection rate, earning the Approved Product certification for maintaining low false positive rates across various protection scenarios.^[37]^[38] In the 2025 Mac Security Test & Review by AV-Comparatives, conducted on macOS Sequoia, Intego detected 97.1% of Mac malware samples and 100% of Windows malware samples, with no false positives, again earning the Approved Mac Security Product certification.^[7] Earlier, in the 2021 Mac certification test, Intego demonstrated 100% detection of both Mac and Windows malware samples, underscoring its effectiveness against cross-platform threats.^[39] A 2025 review by PCMag of Mac Internet Security X9 awarded it 3.5 out of 5 stars, commending its Mac-specific optimizations, such as tailored malware engines and a robust personal firewall that align closely with Apple's ecosystem. However, the review highlighted drawbacks including higher pricing at $49.99 per year for a single license compared to competitors and the absence of dedicated mobile applications.^[3] Assessments from AV-Test further emphasize Intego's strengths in ransomware protection and overall ease of use, with the September 2024 test on macOS Sonoma awarding it 5 out of 6 for protection (encompassing ransomware scenarios), 6 out of 6 for performance, and 6 out of 6 for usability.^[40] Critics, however, point to limitations in cross-platform features, such as fewer integrated tools for Windows or mobile devices relative to rivals like Bitdefender, which offer broader ecosystem support. User feedback consistently highlights Intego's minimal impact on Mac system performance, with scans completing in under 10 minutes without noticeable slowdowns during everyday tasks. On Trustpilot, Intego maintains an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from over 9,600 reviews as of September 2025, reflecting high reliability and straightforward operation for Mac users.^[41]

Awards

Intego has been recognized by independent testing organizations for its effective malware protection on macOS. In 2025, Intego received the Approved Mac Security Product Award from AV-Comparatives following its performance in the Mac Security Test & Review.^[42] In 2024, Intego received the Approved Mac Security Product Award from AV-Comparatives following its performance in the Mac Security Test Series, where it demonstrated top-tier detection rates against Mac-specific threats. Similarly, in 2021, Intego was highlighted in AV-Comparatives' Mac Security Review for achieving 100% detection of both Mac and Windows malware samples in independent testing.^[39] Earlier accolades include the Macworld Editors' Choice Award for Mac Internet Security X8 in 2014, praised for its comprehensive security features tailored to Mac users.^[43] In the same period, Mac Premium Bundle X8 earned the TopTenREVIEWS Gold Award in 2014, with a perfect score in the protection category for its antivirus and parental control capabilities.^[44] Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, Intego's products garnered multiple awards from Mac-focused publications, such as Macworld, for their intuitive interfaces and ease of use in securing Apple devices.^[19] As of September 2025, Intego maintains a 4.8 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot based on over 9,600 customer reviews, reflecting consistent user satisfaction with its reliability and support.^[41] In 2024, Intego's high scores in independent evaluations contributed to broader mentions of its innovations in Mac cybersecurity, underscoring its ongoing leadership in platform-specific defenses.^[45]

References

[1]
Intego Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary - The Mac Security Blog
Oct 19, 2022 · Founded in 1997, Intego's primary focus has always been protecting Mac users from the dangers of the Internet. Five years ago, for our twentieth ...
[2]
Intego - AV-Comparatives
Intego, founded in 1997 in Seattle, produces software for Mac OS users and businesses. They first participated in AV-Comparatives’ Mac Review in 2013.
[3]
Intego Mac Internet Security Review | PCMag
Apr 29, 2025 · Intego Mac Internet Security is lab-certified to protect against macOS malware and comes with a personal firewall, though we'd like to see ...
[4]
https://www.intego.com/company/contact-us/
[5]
Intego: Mac Security and Antivirus Software for Mac OS X
Intego celebrates 25 Years of innovation. For over 25 years, Intego has been the world's foremost leader in protecting Macs from malware, hackers, and ...Intego AccountMac Internet Security X9Free Mac AntivirusBuy Mac Antivirus & Security ...Intego Antivirus for Windows
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Intego - Crunchbase Company Profile & Funding
Intego develops and sells desktop Internet security and privacy software for Macs. It provides a range of software to protect users and their Macs.
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About Intego - How We Started & The Latest In Mac Security
Intego provides internet security and Mac antivirus software, exclusively for Macs and Apple products since 1997, protecting from network threats and malware.
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Announcing Intego Antivirus for Windows - The Mac Security Blog
Jul 10, 2020 · We launched our first antivirus product for Macintosh in 1997; back then it was called Rival, rather than VirusBarrier, and the operating ...
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Intego announces its acquisition by Kape Technologies
Jul 1, 2018 · Seattle, WA, July 2018 London-listed Kape Technologies PLC (LON:KAPE) acquired Intego to help Intego pursue its vision and goals. Kape is a ...
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https://www.intego.com/mac-security-blog/announcing-intego-antivirus-for-windows/
[11]
Intego Mac Internet Security X9 Review - Macworld
Rating 5.0 · Review by Chris BarylickMar 1, 2024 · Intego Mac Internet Security X9 offers a useful set of security utilities that help keep your Mac safe and running smoothly and its user-friendly interface is ...
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https://www.investegate.co.uk/announcement/rns/kape-technologies--kape/acquisition-of-intego-for-16-million/5399486
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Content Barrier by Intego, Blocking, Censorship,Security, Time ...
Jun 2, 2001 · ContentBarrier offers content control, web filters, parental control and much more. ContentBarrier is made by Intego, the creators of the MacOS firewall ...Missing: launch | Show results with:launch
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Washing Machine User's Manual - Intego
Washing Machine can clean five types of items: Bookmarks, Caches, Cookies, Download Histories, and Browsing Histories. It works with most web browsers.Missing: 2003 | Show results with:2003
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Award-winning products for over 25 years - Intego
Award-winning security for PC and Mac. Our leading security software continually improves in speed and ease of use, yet still provides top-notch protection.Missing: 2000s | Show results with:2000s
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10 Years of Mac Malware: How OS X Threats Have Evolved ... - Intego
Feb 16, 2016 · Ten years ago today, Intego discovered the first major Mac malware, called “Oompa-Loompa,” also known officially by the rather nerdy name of ...
[17]
Flashback Mac Trojan Horse Infections Increasing with New Variant
Feb 23, 2012 · Intego VirusBarrier X6 detects Flashback. G and all other variants of this Trojan horse. In this case, the mere presence of VirusBarrier X6 ...Missing: response | Show results with:response
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Intego's Flagship Mac Internet Security Suite Gets Even Better With ...
Intego's Flagship Mac Internet Security Suite Gets Even Better With X8 Launch. Marketwired. April 7, 2014. SEATTLE, WA--(Marketwired - Apr 7, 2014) - Intego ...
[19]
Meet Family Protector: Intego's New iOS Mobile Device Parental ...
Jun 1, 2015 · We created Family Protector to help you set age-appropriate limits on device and app usage, prevent accidental app and in-app purchases, monitor Web activities.
[20]
The State of Mac Security in 2016 - Intego
Feb 16, 2016 · Between the time Intego was founded and 2006, most discovered threats were related to vulnerabilities in Mac OS. For instance, in January 2000, ...
[21]
Kape Technologies : Acquisition of Intego for $16 million
Jul 24, 2018 · Kape has acquired Intego from Bessemer Venture Partners. Intego is focused on the provision of malware protection, firewall, anti-spam, backup, ...
[22]
Sagi's Kape acquires US cybersecurity co Intego - Globes English
Jul 24, 2018 · Kape (formerly CrossRider), part of the Teddy Sagi Group, has acquired Intego from Bessemer Venture Partners for $16 million.
[23]
Intego X9 software is now compatible with macOS Big Sur and M1 ...
Free delivery 30-day returnsSeattle, WA, NOVEMBER, 2020. We are happy to announce that all our X9 series products are now compatible with the new macOS Big Sur and M1 Macs.
[24]
Intego Mac Internet Security X9 Product Review - Firewall Guide
May 22, 2020 · Intego Mac Internet Security X9, the latest release, is more than just an antivirus. It also includes a full-featured firewall that both blocks ...
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Powerful endpoint security for your business - Intego
Intego provides endpoint security for both macOS and Windows, with leading Mac antivirus, Windows protection, and cloud-based management for macOS endpoints.Missing: post- | Show results with:post-
[26]
Intego interviewed about home-centric shift in cybersecurity
Jun 30, 2020 · In a recent interview, Josh Long explains how Intego meets the needs of work-at-home and learn-at-home users, and how cybersecurity is ...
[27]
Kape Technologies — Unveiling Kape - Edison Group
By leveraging its marketing platform to scale new products while also transitioning to a subscription model, we expect to see strong revenue growth and margin ...
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Mac Internet Security X9 - Intego Online Security 2021
Free delivery 30-day returnsMac Internet Security X9 includes VirusBarrier for real-time antivirus and NetBarrier for firewall protection, blocking malware and unauthorized access.Mac Premium Bundle X9 · Mac Premium Bundle + Vpn · System RequirementsMissing: line 2020
[29]
Mac Premium Bundle X9 - Intego
Free delivery 30-day returnsThe Mac Premium Bundle X9 includes VirusBarrier, NetBarrier, Mac Washing Machine, ContentBarrier, and Personal Backup for security, cleanup, parental control, ...Comprehensive Mac Protection... · Block Untrusted Devices · Pick The Right Security...Missing: 2020 | Show results with:2020
[30]
Antivirus for Windows PC & Laptops | Intego Virus Protection
Get the World-class Anti-Virus protection for your Windows PC. Clean your PC from malware within minutes, protect your system at all times.Missing: launch 2019
[31]
Business Antivirus & Protection - Intego Virus Barrier
Intego VirusBarrier X9 is the #1 Mac antivirus software for business that provides easy, worry-free, 24/7 protection from Mac malware and viruses.Missing: endpoint post-
[32]
Mac network protection - Intego NetBarrier X9
NetBarrier is the world's best two-way firewall for Mac, providing intelligent inbound and outbound protection for both Wi-Fi and wired networks. Buy Now.Intuitive And Easy To... · Protect Your Mac On The Go · Mac Internet Security X9
[33]
Mac Security Review/Test 2024 - AV-Comparatives
Jun 12, 2024 · The report includes the results of this Windows-malware detection test. The report also provides general security advice for Mac users on ...Missing: rate | Show results with:rate
[34]
AV-Comparatives Awards 2024 for Intego
Feb 24, 2025 · Intego achieved great success in AV-Comparatives' Mac Security Test Series of 2024. The tests covered different protection scenarios, false ...Missing: rate | Show results with:rate
[35]
Mac Security Review/Test 2021 - AV-Comparatives
Jul 2, 2021 · Independent antivirus testing lab AV-Comparatives has released the report of its 2021 Mac certification test and review of security programs ...
[36]
Intego Mac Premium Bundle X8 Review - Pros, Cons and Verdict
Rating 3.9 · Review by Nicole JohnstonSep 24, 2018 · It easily identified Trojans, spyware and worms and ensures they don't embed themselves on your system. It also does a great job blocking ...Missing: ease | Show results with:ease
[37]
Read Customer Service Reviews of www.intego.com - Trustpilot
Intego's security programs are designed so novices and security experts alike can protect their Macs optimally. Intego's programs have received dozens of awards ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[38]
Mac Internet Security X8 Wins Macworld Editors' Choice Award
Jun 20, 2014 · Protect your Mac against malware, strangers, and suspicious applications with Intego's award-winning Mac Internet Security X8. Is your Mac ...
[39]
AV-Comparatives honors Intego with Approved Product award
Feb 27, 2025 · Intego achieved great success in AV-Comparatives' Mac Security Test Series of 2024. The tests covered different protection scenarios, false ...Missing: rate | Show results with:rate