Microsoft Defender

Microsoft Defender is an online security app for your digital life

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and work

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.

Use Microsoft Defender for individuals

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at home and on the go to stay safer online. Simplify your online security with one easy-to-use app that helps keep you and your family one step ahead of threats. Microsoft Defender for individuals is available exclusively with a Microsoft 365 Personal or Family subscription.

All-in-one security app

Seamlessly protect your data and devices

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against malicious threats with continuous antivirus scanning, multi device alerts, and expert guidance.

Manage your security in one place

• Check the security status of your family’s devices.

• Get timely threat alerts, push notifications, and security tips across your devices.

Trusted device protection

• Protect your devices against new and existing malware, spyware, and ransomware threats with continuous scanning.

• Get alerted across your devices if malicious apps are found and take recommended steps to uninstall and remove the threats.

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is an industry-leading, cloud-powered endpoint security solution that helps to secure against ransomware, file-less malware, and other sophisticated attacks across platforms.

Microsoft Defender uses accessibility services to automatically block malicious web pages that may be accessed via links from SMS, messaging apps, browsers, and email.

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Microsoft 365 Family or Personal subscription required. Sign in with your Microsoft account. App is currently not available in certain Microsoft 365 Personal or Family regions.

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If you are a member of a business or organization, you need to login with your work or school email. Your company or business is required to have a valid license or subscription.

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Does not replace existing malware protection on iOS and Windows devices.

Microsoft Defender is a built-in security solution integrated into Windows operating systems, designed to protect users from various types of malware, including viruses, spyware, and ransomware. It acts as a first line of defense, offering real-time protection by continuously scanning files, processes, and network activity for malicious behavior. Unlike third-party antivirus programs that require separate installation and subscription, Defender comes pre-installed and enabled by default, making it readily available for immediate protection.

Defender's functionality extends beyond basic virus scanning. It includes features like cloud-delivered protection, which leverages Microsoft's global threat intelligence network to quickly identify and block emerging threats. It also offers controlled folder access, a feature that helps prevent ransomware from encrypting important files by restricting unauthorized access to protected folders. Exploit protection is another key component, designed to mitigate vulnerabilities in software that attackers could exploit to gain control of a system. Furthermore, Defender integrates with Windows Firewall to provide network-level security, controlling inbound and outbound network traffic based on predefined rules.

While Microsoft Defender offers a solid foundation for security, it's often recommended to supplement it with other security measures, especially for users who engage in high-risk online activities. These additional measures might include using a strong password manager, being cautious of suspicious emails and links, and keeping software up to date with the latest security patches. Although Defender provides a competent level of protection, a layered security approach offers the most comprehensive defense against the ever-evolving threat landscape.