Defender automatically resides in memory to offer real-time protection against malware. Known collectively as Windows Security, the built-in defenses start with the Microsoft Defender antivirus tool. Note: Go to our roundup of the best antivirus for PC to learn about competing products, what to look for in an AV suite, and product recommendations. Beyond just basic antivirus protection, Windows 10 and 11 both include a healthy lineup of other tools designed to protect your PC, your files, and your online activity from malicious threats. But over the years, Microsoft has beefed up the security features that come with Windows. The common perception is that paid security products from third parties must be more effective than any security built into an operating system like Windows. The AV tool neatly integrates with other Windows features to offer more comprehensive security. Microsoft Defender provides basic but helpful protection against malware, ransomware, and other threats.

Lacks the advanced features found in third-party products.

Tends toward false positives, especially with SmartScreen.

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