Users often wonder which tool to trust. 24 Channels I figured out whether the built-in antivirus in Windows is enough and whether it really protects your computer.

Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus program included with modern Windows operating systems. It offers users protection by default. The performance of this built-in solution left much to be desired, but over time some things have changed.

How effective is Windows Defender?

For many users, Windows Defender is a very useful antivirus because it runs silently in the background and protects systems without requiring additional configuration or installation. It just so happened that it was considered inferior compared to third-party alternatives. However, the improvements it has achieved over time position Windows Defender today as a serious competitor to its peers and a reliable defender for users.

Scores from reputable research organizations such as AV-Test provide insight into the effectiveness of antivirus software. According to AV-Test’s December 2023 report, Windows Defender performed quite well in various metrics.

In particular, it demonstrated excellent capabilities in detecting “zero-day” vulnerabilities and performed flawlessly in identifying known viruses.

Productivity and convenience for users

Windows Defender’s impact on system performance is within acceptable thresholds with minimal downtime. Despite criticism of the user interface, customization options like DefenderUI allow users to customize settings to their liking.

Is Windows Defender alone enough to protect your computer?

Windows Defender provides reliable protection against a wide range of threats, making it a viable option for users looking for reliable antivirus software. In most cases, you do not need to install an additional antivirus in home computer usage scenarios.

However, users with special needs, such as those who prefer open source solutions or those looking for additional features such as integrated VPN, can consider alternative antivirus packages.

Solution

While Windows Defender does a great job of ensuring security and performance, users are advised to explore a variety of antivirus solutions to ensure they meet their individual needs.

Ultimately, the decision to rely solely on Windows Defender or consider other options comes down to factors such as personal preferences and desired features. But if you are looking for reliable daily computer protection without additional options, the built-in solution will be more than enough for you.