For better protection, keep every available real-time protection layer enabled, keep Malwarebytes updated, and make sure it starts with Windows without delaying protection. Schedule a weekly scan if your plan and device support it, and review Exploit Protection’s protected-app list on Windows. On macOS, complete the permission prompts needed to activate Web Protection. The settings you can use depend on your operating system, device architecture, and subscription.
Keep real-time protection enabled
Malwarebytes recommends keeping all available protection layers enabled. Its Real-Time Protection guidance says the layers defend the device around the clock and should be enabled as soon as possible. Real-time protection requires a paid subscription.
Web Protection and Malware Protection are available on Windows and macOS. Ransomware Protection and Exploit Protection are Windows features, and Exploit Protection is unavailable on ARM-based devices. Your app may therefore show a different set of switches.
On Windows
- Open the Malwarebytes app and select the Real-Time Protection card.
- Select Protection settings.
- Turn on each available protection layer.
On macOS
- Open the Real-Time Protection card.
- Follow the app’s steps to activate the available layers.
Malware Protection and App Block on macOS require Full Disk Access. Grant the requested permission through the system flow shown by the app.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Set Windows startup and update options
On Windows, these options help Malwarebytes stay current and start protection promptly. Open Settings > General and use the following configuration, based on Malwarebytes’ Windows General settings guidance:
- Leave Application updates on.
- Keep Launch Malwarebytes in the background when Windows starts enabled; it is on by default.
- Leave Delay Real-Time Protection when Malwarebytes starts off so protection can start as Windows starts.
- Leave Enable self-protection module on.
- Leave Enable self-protection module early start off if you want to preserve the computer’s existing startup order; Malwarebytes recommends this setting.
Windows Security Center determines whether Windows recognizes Malwarebytes as the security solution. If you use another antivirus, you may need to register that program with Windows Security Center separately.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Choose a scan schedule that fits your plan
Malwarebytes recommends scanning weekly or after downloading a new application. Scheduled scans are paid features on Windows and macOS in the current feature comparison. Manual scans are available on free and paid versions, so a free user can still run a scan on demand.
For supported Windows schedules, Malwarebytes recommends a Threat Scan, At idle time (Smart scan), Quarantine all threats, and leaving Scan within archives selected. On macOS, its scheduling guidance recommends automatic quarantine and leaving Ignore PUPs unchecked. See the official Windows scan-schedule instructions and Mac scan-schedule instructions for the controls shown in your app.
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Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
A Threat Scan checks common system locations, including files and programs; scan duration depends on scan type and customizations. Paid subscribers have a weekly Threat Scan by default, according to Malwarebytes’ Windows scan guide. Smart Scan starts a scan when the device is idle. Windows also offers automatic restart to remove threats, but that option requires Quarantine all threats first; enable it only if you want Malwarebytes to restart the device automatically when needed.
Review protected apps in Windows Exploit Protection
Exploit Protection is designed to block malicious software attempting to exploit vulnerabilities. Apps are protected by default when the feature is enabled, but applications installed afterward are not automatically added to that protection. Check the list after installing new software:
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
- Open Settings > Protection.
- Select Configure protected applications.
- Review the list and add newly installed applications that you want protected.
Malwarebytes documents this behavior and process in its Exploit Protection guide.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Activate Web Protection, including macOS permissions
Web Protection guards against web threats such as scams, phishing, and ransomware. On Windows, open Settings > Protection and switch on Web Protection. On macOS, open the Real-Time Protection card, switch on Web Protection, and follow the system prompts.
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- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Depending on your macOS release, activation may ask you to allow a system extension or a network filter. Follow the prompts for your installed version rather than assuming every Mac shows the same permission screens. Malwarebytes’ platform-specific steps are in its Real-Time Protection article and Mac Web Protection instructions.
Understand what Browser Guard controls
Browser Guard is a separate browser extension, not a desktop real-time protection layer. Its controls cover website protection and notifications, and its settings do not apply in private or incognito windows. Malwarebytes cautions that turning off protection features may limit browsing privacy and security.
- Ads/Trackers is a privacy setting; Malwarebytes says it does not affect safety.
- The real-time malware notification setting controls alerts. Turning off that notification does not turn off malware blocking.
- Do not disable website protection merely to quiet alerts; adjust the notification control instead.
For the available settings and their effects, see the Browser Guard settings guide.
Keep security alerts; adjust convenience notices
On Windows, you can enable alerts for when a real-time layer is turned off and when Malwarebytes blocks malware, ransomware, or an exploit. Promotional notifications and general update notices are separate preferences, so you can change them for convenience without changing protection. Play mode can suspend notifications while selected apps are open. The options are documented in Malwarebytes’ Windows notification guide.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Know which settings your subscription includes
Malwarebytes’ feature comparison, updated September 8, 2026, lists Quick and Custom scans as free on Windows and Mac. Threat Scan, scheduled scans, real-time protection, and Web Protection are paid features on both platforms; Windows Ransomware and Exploit Protection are also listed as paid. Feature availability may vary by platform, and options can change with app releases, device architecture, and subscription. Check the current comparison if a setting described here is missing.
Quick Recap
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