What must I do to activate the Windows Defender on my PC?

You have to do nothing if you are using Windows 10 since the software is automatically installed and activated. However, if you are not using a Windows operating system, you must download and install the antivirus software.

Will the Windows Defender work on my PC if I already have antivirus software?

Windows Defender does not block other antivirus programs. In fact, it will turn itself off if it detects that you are activating other antivirus software. If you turn off the alternative program, Windows Defender will automatically reactivate to protect your PC.

Is Windows powerful enough to keep me safe from cyber threats?

While Windows Defender provides decent cybersecurity protection, it cannot match many premium antivirus services. It can serve you if you are just looking for basic internet protection. However, Windows Defender may not be an ideal option if you have sensitive data such as bank details, login info, or private files.

Does Windows Defender protect mobile devices?

The protection will extend to your mobile devices if you have a Windows 10 Enterprise software license. You can download and install the Windows Defender app from Google Play Store. Sadly, Microsoft hasn’t released a version for iOS devices. Nonetheless, mobile devices are not susceptible to attacks like PCs, and if you use Android and iOS operating systems, you will receive frequent security features. Therefore, expect to use Windows Defender on your laptop and desktop devices.

Can Windows Defender eliminate malware in my PC?

Yes. Windows Defender will remove malware from your PC if it detects it. However, since Microsoft doesn’t update the Windows Defender frequently, new malware will not be detected. Therefore, you cannot entirely rely on Windows Defender as your primary antivirus. There are better free antiviruses that are regularly updated to handle the newest threats. However, they still cannot offer guaranteed malware protection like premium ones.

Can Windows Defender offer protection against phishing scams?

Yes. The Windows Defender browser extension can protect you from cybersecurity threats, such as phishing scams and malicious sites. However, the protection is basic because the antivirus is not updated enough. You will be much safer with budget-friendly premium antiviruses like Norton 360.

Will I incur any charges for using Windows Defender?

Windows Defender is completely free for PCs with Windows 8 and above. Nonetheless, there are enhanced free antivirus programs that are updated regularly than the Defender.

Which is the best antivirus software to complement Windows Defender?

Microsoft has not been keen to update the software to handle the latest malware trends. So, using it as your standalone antivirus can leave you vulnerable to spyware, ransomware, and other advanced forms of malware. Combining Windows Defender with another reliable antivirus such as TotalAV is recommended.

Is Windows Defender good enough to use in 2023 (yes and no)

Nwachukwu Glory - Tech Expert

Last updated: November 16, 2023

Read time: 24 minutes

This is an estimated reading time to let you know how long it will take you to read all the content on this particular PrivacySavvy.com page. However, it has a sneak peek, easy guide steps, and/or a quick list providing quick in-page navigations and easily-found answers if desired.

Windows Defender comes pre-installed with all Windows versions, ensuring out-of-the-box antivirus protection. So, do you still need another antivirus on your device?

Sneak peek at Microsoft (Windows) Defender

Windows Defender is an antivirus program that comes built-in with Microsoft Windows 10. As it provides right out-of-the-box antivirus defenses after installation, it is a convenient tool. But many people keep wondering (and rightly so) if Windows Defender is good enough. The answer is ‘yes,’ but it has some shortcomings. This post uncovers precisely all that stuff.

Cyber threats have been on the rise lately. Individuals/organizations regularly lose their information through computer-related attacks.

Some of the attacks could cause the documents to get corrupt.

Others may make them completely missing and cause system malfunction. In some instances, the documents would be encrypted with ransomware.

Whether you have experienced this or not, protecting your devices with antivirus applications is important. Antivirus programs can shield your documents and entire system from hackers. They can help protect your privacy, protect your systems against ransomware, and generally maintain integrity.

Microsoft Defender, which many users still dub Windows Defender (its initial name), is an in-built antivirus that comes with MS Windows. The program promises to deliver comprehensive real-time protection against viruses, spyware, and malware across apps, email, the web, and the cloud.