Windows’ built-in antivirus, Windows Defender, is good enough if you’re not an avid internet user and want a free antivirus solution to handle your limited needs. It protects devices from viruses, malware, and even ransomware. In fact, it received excellent scores during the latest AV-TEST report. It boasts a 100% malware detection rate and a perfect score of 6/6 for performance, protection, and usability.
However, the internet landscape has changed drastically and Windows Defender isn’t enough to save you from all possible online threats. It lacks important features like:
- An adblocker
- Dark web protection
- Real-time data breach alerts
- An advanced VPN
This is why we recommend a reputable third-party antivirus — these not only offer all-around protection but also protect multiple devices simultaneously on one subscription.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes free with Windows OS
- Offers a quick and customized scan
- Excellent test scores
Cons
- No phishing protection
- Only a basic VPN
- No dark web monitoring
Windows Defender’s Features
Here are some of the key features you get with Microsoft Windows Defender:
Virus and Malware Protection
Windows Defender offers robust virus and malware protection through various scan options such as:
- Quick Scan—This takes far less time than a full scan.
- Full Scan—Scans all the files in your system for potential malware.
- Customized Scan—Lets you scan a particular folder.
Once the scan is done, you’ll see a summary at the end, showing the number of files scanned and threats found. There’s also a ransomware protection feature that protects folders on your system from unauthorized changes.
Firewall and Network Protection
Windows Defender offers a firewall as the first line of defense against internet traffic. You can manage firewall settings on three different types of networks – domain, private, and public. Out of this, unsecured networks such as public Wi-Fi hotspots need the most security, of course. We were also impressed with the comprehensive settings menu with Windows Defender.
For example, it may so happen that the firewall perceives a legitimate website as a threat. In that case, you can use the ‘allow an app through firewall’ setting to access that website.
The Downsides of Windows Defender
Windows Defender is a good antivirus solution – but it’s not the best. For starters, it doesn’t go beyond basic scanning functions. For example, if you’re only using Windows Defender and your passwords are leaked in a data breach, you’ll never know about it, as there’s no dark web or data breach monitor.
Similarly, there’s no ad blocker to block malicious pop-ups or active phishing protection that identifies malicious links in emails and SMS messages. Even worse, you might have to turn Windows Defender off so that apps can work seamlessly on your system. Also, if you think these are just ancillary features, think again. 70% of businesses...
