Windows Security vs. Microsoft Defender: Key Differences Explained
By Andrew Drue
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Understanding Windows Security
Windows Security is the rebranded version of what was previously known as Windows Defender. It functions as an integrated antivirus and network protection system built into Windows. Similar to third-party antivirus programs, it offers a user-friendly interface for managing security settings and performing manual scans. The app is organized into distinct tabs, each serving specific purposes:
Virus & Threat Protection
From this tab, users can manually initiate system scans such as Quick, Full, Custom, or Offline scans. You can adjust the sensitivity of the system’s threat detection, set up stringent ransomware defenses, and handle quarantined files.
Account Protection
This section helps safeguard your Microsoft account and strengthen the login process by managing multi-factor authentication (MFA) settings and ensuring account integrity across various platforms.
Firewall & Network Protection
This tab allows users to configure how incoming and outgoing traffic is filtered, manage firewall settings, and enable network-level defenses to block potentially malicious traffic.
App & Browser Control
Windows Security monitors applications for suspicious behavior and determines if they should run in isolated environments, such as Edge’s sandboxed mode. This feature helps prevent unauthorized software actions that could harm your system.
Device Security
Here, you can monitor advanced hardware protections like core virtualization, Trusted Platform Module (TPM), and secure boot mechanisms, which are essential for preventing unauthorized access at a deeper system level.
Device Performance & Health
Windows Security provides a high-level overview of your system’s performance, including software updates, storage health, and other relevant metrics that contribute to overall system stability.
Family Options
This feature helps users set parental controls by filtering content and tracking device usage across multiple users in a family group. Through a web portal, parents can manage restrictions and monitor how family members use their devices.
What is Microsoft Defender?
Although it shares a name with Windows Security’s antivirus engine, Microsoft Defender is an independent application available to Microsoft 365 subscribers. Its primary role is to provide enhanced online protection for individual users and families, supplementing the basic defenses of Windows Security.
Privacy Protection
Microsoft Defender includes an encrypted VPN service, allowing users to secure their online activities on untrusted networks, such as public Wi-Fi. With up to 50GB of data per month, it automatically activates when connecting to unsecure networks, offering a seamless security experience across Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS.
Identity Theft Monitoring
Through a partnership with Experian, Microsoft Defender tracks potential identity theft risks by monitoring credit reports for suspicious activity. The service includes up to $1 million in restoration costs and $100,000 in lost funds if fraud occurs.
Device Protection
Microsoft Defender allows users to keep tabs on the security of up to four devices, with real-time alerts on suspicious activities. This feature is particularly useful for families, as notifications are integrated into Windows and can be managed through the Defender app.
Comparing Windows Security and Microsoft Defender
Windows Security and Microsoft Defender are complementary, not competing, tools. While Windows Security offers robust defense against malware, ransomware, and unauthorized system access, Microsoft Defender strengthens these protections by securing online activities and monitoring identity theft risks.
Integrated Features
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Windows Security is automatically included with any Windows license and offers essential antivirus, firewall, and network protection.
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Microsoft Defender, available only to Microsoft 365 subscribers, extends these features by providing privacy-focused tools like a VPN, identity theft protection, and device management.
Cost Consideration
Windows Security comes free with any Windows operating system, but Microsoft Defender requires a Microsoft 365 subscription. Together, they provide a holistic solution comparable to third-party antivirus suites, offering enhanced protection without the additional expense.
Should You Use Microsoft Defender?
For Microsoft 365 users, Microsoft Defender is a logical addition to Windows Security. It integrates seamlessly with Windows Security’s existing features, creating a strong, unified defense system that rivals third-party options. However, if you aren’t a Microsoft 365 subscriber, investing in standalone antivirus software may provide more comprehensive coverage for specific needs, such as password management or a different user interface.
Q&A Section
Q: Do I need Microsoft Defender if I already have Windows Security?
A: If you're a Microsoft 365 subscriber, Microsoft Defender offers additional features like a VPN, identity theft monitoring, and multi-device protection, which can complement Windows Security's antivirus and firewall protections.
Q: Can I use third-party antivirus with Windows Security?
A: Yes, you can use third-party antivirus software alongside Windows Security. Windows Security will automatically disable its antivirus protection when another antivirus program is detected but will maintain firewall and device security functions.
Q: What’s the difference between Microsoft Defender and other third-party antivirus software?
A: Microsoft Defender is designed to work seamlessly with Windows Security, providing additional privacy and identity protections. While third-party antivirus software may offer more extensive features, Microsoft Defender's tight integration with Windows systems makes it an efficient and lightweight option for Microsoft 365 users.
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