A Review of Windows Defender
If you’re looking for an easy low-cost security option, the suite that is integrated into Windows 10 or 11 is an excellent choice. Also called Microsoft Defender or Windows Security, it combines antivirus protection with the ability to block devices, firewalls and device performance monitoring kid protection online (you can set the permissions for what your kids can do on computers and devices), and other features.
In addition to the normal malware detection, neutralization and prevention capabilities, it also has an anti-phishing password manager and a password manager tools. Its firewall is able to monitor all connections, both inbound and outbound, including Wi-Fi networks. It also has an advanced menu that allows you to view specific information about suspicious connections, which is an important feature.
In our tests, the software performed well enough in blocking phishing websites, as well as dangerous downloads. The reputation-based protection system it uses is a massive online database to assign apps and websites reputation scores. Software with low scores are immediately blocked. It also provides exploit protection, which protects against attacks attempting to alter the settings on your computer.
It’s a decent product generally but it doesn’t have the malware detection rates that standalone competitors like Norton and Bitdefender do. It does, however, include the password manager, it doesn’t include other useful features like an optimizer for PCs or a VPN. The support options for customers are vast. There’s a massive community with detailed FAQs forums, as well as multiple ways to reach an expert in tech via live chat or email.