PC Matic Security & Whitelisting Guides
Explore practical information about application whitelisting, malware protection, PC optimization, installation, and troubleshooting for PC Matic.
Explore PC Matic product categories
Educational overviews of PC Matic's main product lines and what each is generally used for.
Home Security
Whitelist-based malware protection for personal computers, built around the SuperShield engine.
Learn more →PC Matic Pro & MSP
Business-focused whitelisting and endpoint security, including tools built for managed service providers.
Learn more →PC Optimization
Tools aimed at cleaning up unnecessary files and helping an aging computer run more smoothly.
Learn more →Understand application whitelisting
Most traditional antivirus software relies on a blacklist of known-bad programs. PC Matic instead uses a whitelist approach, which by default blocks anything that hasn't already been verified as safe. Understanding this distinction helps set realistic expectations for how the software behaves day to day.
Read How Whitelisting WorksBlocks programs already known to be malicious; anything not yet identified can still run.
Only pre-verified programs are allowed to run by default; everything else is held back until reviewed.
General cybersecurity concepts
Concepts commonly discussed alongside antivirus and whitelisting software.
Malware
Software designed to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to a system.
Ransomware
Malware that encrypts files and demands payment; prevention-based tools aim to stop it before it runs.
Phishing
Deceptive messages designed to trick people into revealing information or installing malware.
Zero-Day Threats
Newly discovered attack methods that haven't yet been added to traditional malware databases.
Popular troubleshooting topics
Quick starting points for common installation and scanning issues.
Performance concerns
Guidance for troubleshooting a slowdown after installing security software.
View topic →Popular guides
How to Install PC Matic
A step-by-step starting point for installing and running your first scan.
View guide →How to Add a Program to the Whitelist
Understand the general process for approving a trusted program.
View guide →How to Run a PC Optimization Scan
General concepts for cleaning up unnecessary files and startup items.
View guide →Latest article
How Application Whitelisting Works (and How It's Different from Antivirus)
A practical walkthrough of whitelist-based security, how it compares to traditional blacklist antivirus, and what to expect day to day.
Read article →Frequently asked questions
Is this website the official PC Matic website?
No. This is an independent informational resource that is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by PC Matic, Inc.
What is application whitelisting?
Whitelisting is a security approach that only allows pre-verified, trusted programs to run by default, rather than relying solely on a list of known-bad programs like traditional antivirus.
Can I get official PC Matic support here?
No. This site provides general educational information only. For official product support, refer to PC Matic's own channels.
Does this site ask for passwords or payment information?
No. This site never asks visitors for passwords, account credentials, or payment-card information.
Have a general question?
Send an informational inquiry — this is not official PC Matic support.