Finally, Microsoft decided to release its own antivirus and antimalware kit that would be shipped together with its flagship operating system. Modern PCs that run the latest iteration of the OS by Microsoft have a program called Windows Defender Security Center that provides a little bit more resilient protection from various cyber threats such as viruses and spyware. You will still need to install additional programs to fend off some of the most recent and advanced threats, but a default security center is actually a powerful tool that you should never ignore.
Which is better: Windows Defender or third-party software?
All Windows 10 devices come with a preinstalled version of Windows Defender. It is a free program that you don’t have to pay for. The updates are regular and components of the security system provide decent protection from many viruses. It does not mean, however, that you should rely only on this tool to stay safe. It is especially true for active internet users spending a lot of time browsing suspicious websites.
Windows Defender offers protection on a fundamental level preventing such threats as rootkit malware that can infect your system and steal passwords, various notes you make as well as cryptographic information. Third-party software will never have access to such deep parts of the system. This level of protection is not turned off even if you install third-party programs. However, you can turn it off when necessary. It is not recommended at all and should be used as an option by experienced users and technicians.
You can access the security center by either searching for it via the Windows search box at the bottom of the screen or finding the icon of the program in the system tray. Even if you turn off the system, some of the maintenance protocols will still work. Installing third-party software won’t affect some of the components that will continue to routinely scan the system and look for potential threats.
In order to take a look at a detailed report from the security center, you will need to do the following:
1. Open the dashboard of the center and select “Device performance & health”.
2. Check the report and look for threats that will be highlighted by the system.
3. If there is a problem requiring your immediate attention, you will be able to check the box next to it and search for solutions.
Do not leave the dashboard just yet. You will need to set up the SmartScreen for apps and browsers that will assist you when you are browsing the web.
– In the dashboard search for the App and Browser control panel.
– Check the circle next to Warn in all browsers to ensure that the security system can work with the browser.
