Microsoft Defender Antivirus, previously known as Windows Defender, is a built-in antivirus program that comes with every Windows operating system. It is designed to protect your computer from viruses, malware, and other types of threats. In this article, we will review the latest version of Microsoft Defender Antivirus and see whether it is worth using in 2022.
What's new in Microsoft Defender Antivirus 2022?
Microsoft has added several new features to Defender Antivirus in 2022. Some of the most notable ones include:
- Protection against fileless malware: Defender Antivirus can now detect and remove fileless malware, which is a type of malware that resides in your computer's memory and doesn't leave any traces on your hard drive.
- Improved ransomware protection: Defender Antivirus now uses machine learning algorithms to detect and block ransomware attacks.
- Integration with Microsoft 365 Defender: Microsoft has integrated Defender Antivirus with its Microsoft 365 Defender suite, which provides advanced threat protection for enterprise customers.
How effective is Microsoft Defender Antivirus?
Microsoft Defender Antivirus is a decent antivirus program that provides basic protection against malware and other types of threats. However, it is not as effective as some of the other antivirus programs available in the market. According to recent tests conducted by independent testing labs, Defender Antivirus scores lower than many of its competitors in terms of malware detection and removal rates.
That being said, Defender Antivirus is still a good option for those who are looking for a free and lightweight antivirus program that doesn't consume too much system resources.
How to use Microsoft Defender Antivirus?
Using Microsoft Defender Antivirus is very easy. It comes pre-installed in every Windows operating system, so you don't need to download or install anything. To use Defender Antivirus, simply follow these steps:
- Open the Windows Security app by clicking on the shield icon in the taskbar or searching for "Windows Security" in the Start menu.
- Click on "Virus & threat protection."
- Click on "Quick scan" to scan your computer for malware.
You can also customize the settings of Defender Antivirus by clicking on "Manage settings." From there, you can turn on or off features such as real-time protection, cloud-delivered protection, and automatic sample submission.
Is Microsoft Defender Antivirus free?
Yes, Microsoft Defender Antivirus is completely free for all Windows users. You don't need to pay anything to use it, and you don't need to download or install anything either. It comes pre-installed in every Windows operating system, and you can start using it right away.
Conclusion
Microsoft Defender Antivirus is a decent antivirus program that provides basic protection against malware and other types of threats. It is free, lightweight, and easy to use, which makes it a good option for those who are looking for a simple and hassle-free antivirus program. However, if you are looking for a more comprehensive and effective antivirus program, you might want to consider some of the other options available in the market.
