Do Chromebooks Need Antivirus Software?

LAST UPDATED: December 11th, 2018

You want to keep your Chromebook safe from the online threats of ransomware, crypto viruses, and malware. But does that mean you need the extra security provided by a trusted antivirus program?

Most computer experts, including those at Google, will tell you that there’s no need to download antivirus software on your Chromebook. That’s because they all come with built-in security features that should be more than enough to keep your laptop safe from harm.

Google believes in providing Chromebook users with an in-depth defense against malware and viruses through multiple layers of protection. Let’s take a look at the enhanced security features your Chromebook has right out of the box.

Automatic Updates

By pushing through automatic updates, Google helps give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your Chromebook is protected without any effort on your end. Your Chrome OS will be automatically patched with security updates as soon as a new bug or vulnerability is identified.

This means you never have to worry about checking for updates or wondering what new threat is circulating online. Thanks to automatic updates from Google, your device and data are kept free from harm without any more work from you.

Sandboxing

On your Chromebook, individual applications and web pages are opened in what is called a sandbox, which contains all the code necessary for a specific browser tab or application to run effectively. This added security measure blocks outside directories or software from having access to your device.

If you accidentally navigate to an infected website, the sandboxed environment utilized in your Chromebook keeps any threat isolated from other pages and applications. This ensures that the infection doesn’t spread to other parts of your Chromebook’s system.

Verified Boot

Whenever you start your Chromebook, it goes through an extra step in the start-up process that Google calls a “verified boot.” This line-by-line check of your operating system’s code determines if it may have been tampered with in any way.

If an issue is detected during the verified boot process, your Chromebook will take steps to repair itself, bringing it back to a base state, and ensuring that your laptop will run as good as new.

Data Encryption

Through the use of automatic data encryption, your Chromebook makes it almost impossible for someone to access any stored information on your device. Data encryption works by scrambling your device’s data, making it viewable only with a password or encryption key.

This enhanced form of security keeps prying eyes from viewing and accessing the information you have stored on your Chromebook. You don’t have to worry about anyone other than yourself getting a look at your private information.

The Bottom Line

Thanks to excellent native security features, you don’t need any added antivirus protection on your Chromebook. Your laptop from Google will keep your data safe and sound, without you having to take any extra steps. And that means plenty of time for worry-free online searching and shopping!