Microsoft Defender

Built-In on Windows: On Windows 10 and Windows 11, Microsoft Defender is pre-installed as part of the operating system, so no additional download is required. Simply open "Windows Security" from the Start menu to access Microsoft Defender features. Set Up on Android or iOS: For mobile devices, download Microsoft Defender from the Google Play Store for Android or the App Store for iPhone. Install the app and sign in using your Microsoft account to begin securing your device. Real-Time Protection: Microsoft Defender provides real-time protection that scans files and programs as they are opened or downloaded. You don’t need to start a manual scan—Microsoft Defender continuously monitors for threats in the background. Run a Quick or Full Scan: Open the Windows Security app and select the "Virus & threat protection" tab to run a quick or full scan of your system. Quick scans check the most vulnerable areas, while full scans examine your entire system for any threats. Check Scan Results: After running a scan, the app will display any detected threats and provide options to remove or quarantine them. If no threats are found, Microsoft Defender will notify you that your system is secure. Enable Ransomware Protection: Microsoft Defender includes ransomware protection with the "Controlled folder access" feature. This prevents unauthorized apps from accessing and encrypting your sensitive files. Enable this feature from the "Ransomware protection" tab under "Virus & threat protection." Web Protection and Firewall: Microsoft Defender automatically enables web protection to block malicious websites. It also works in conjunction with the Windows Firewall, ensuring your network connections remain secure. You can manage these settings in the "Firewall & network protection" section of Windows Security. Family Safety Features: Microsoft Defender includes parental control tools that allow you to manage screen time, monitor app usage, and set browsing restrictions for family members. These features can be accessed through the Family Safety section in the app. Update Virus Definitions: Microsoft Defender automatically updates its virus definitions to stay protected from the latest threats. However, you can manually check for updates by opening the app and selecting "Check for updates" under "Virus & threat protection." Use Device Protection Across Platforms: If you have multiple devices, use your Microsoft account to link your security settings across Windows, Android, and iOS devices. This ensures that all your devices are protected by Microsoft Defender, with unified security management from one platform. Stay Updated: Microsoft Defender receives regular updates as part of Windows updates, so it's important to keep your operating system and apps up-to-date to ensure you always have the latest security features and protections.