In addition to all of this testing, I measured CPU performance during various situations - like while using high-powered programs during disk scans - as well as testing every single feature to assess its overall ease of use. I also navigated to dozens of phishing sites on a few different browsers to assess Defender’s anti-phishing capabilities, and I simulated exploit and network-based attacks to test Microsoft’s built-in firewall and network protections. I downloaded around a thousand malware files - including viruses, trojans, ransomware, adware, cryptojackers, keyloggers, and rootkits - in order to test the disk scanning and real-time protection functions. I ran Defender through the same rigorous tests that I use for all third-party antivirus products. Is Microsoft’s Defender Antivirus Good Enough?
Because Windows Defender now includes all of these useful features, users are wondering whether they can rely on Defender alone to protect their computers or need to use a third-party antivirus.
It even includes simple PC performance and health reports as well as parental controls with content filtering, usage limitations, and location tracking. Microsoft’s Defender is pretty good at detecting malware files, blocking exploits and network-based attacks, and flagging phishing sites. There are many reasons to like Windows Defender - especially as Microsoft has worked really hard to improve it over the last few years. Frequently Asked Questions about Microsoft’s Windows Defender.Ībout Microsoft Defender Antivirus (aka Windows Defender).Numbers 6-10 of the best Defender alternatives.McAfee - Better web protections (including a customizable firewall & Wi-Fi scanner).
Avira - Best free alternative with a more effective anti-malware scanner.