Microsoft Defender Antivirus doesn’t get much respect when it comes to security, but it’s been around defending our Windows devices for a long time. Originally released as Windows Defender in ...

Microsoft Defender can help protect your entire family's Windows, Android, and Mac devices from malicious apps and other malware.

Microsoft Defender (formerly known as Windows Defender) is Microsoft's built-in antivirus and firewall. Turning on Defender in Windows Security is easy, but other programs can sometimes prevent it from running. This wikiHow guide will show you how to turn on Microsoft Defender on your Windows 10 or 11 PC and help you troubleshoot errors along the way.

Learn about security intelligence updates, platform updates, and engine updates for Microsoft Defender Antivirus, including rollback and support options.

Enable and configure Microsoft Defender Antivirus real-time protection features such as behavior monitoring, heuristics, and machine learning.

Is Windows Defender Better Than Free Antivirus Software? Windows Defender, Microsoft’s built-in antivirus tool, offers a decent level of protection, especially for users who want a no-fuss, no-cost solution.

Microsoft Defender Antivirus (offline scan): Uses the latest definitions to scan your device for the latest threats. This happens after a restart, without loading Windows, so any persistent malware has a more difficult time hiding or defending itself.

Check the guide for Microsoft/Windows Defender download, install, uninstall, reinstall on Windows 10/11. Also learn how to fix can’t open Windows Defender.

Microsoft Defender Antivirus comes built-in to Windows 10 and Windows 11. You can turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus if you decide to use a different security product. Caution Your device will be vulnerable to malware if you disable Microsoft Defender Antivirus and don’t have another security product.

Microsoft causes confusion with its names. This is also the case with Defender device protection. The guide breaks down the differences between Windows Defender, the Defender app and Windows security.