There is a large selection of free and paid options for antivirus software, and Windows itself comes with its virus protection, called Windows Defender. Is it good enough?
If you’re using newer Windows, Windows Defender automatically gets operating systems and is ready to go right away. However, this fact begs an interesting question: can this free, automated antivirus program protect your computer well enough from Internet threats?
Facts about Windows defender
To answer this question, let’s first look at specific data and information on the effectiveness of this antivirus concerning tests done by independent laboratories that deal with testing antivirus programs.
There are several websites dedicated to testing and reporting on the effectiveness of available antivirus programs. So what do these sites have to say about the effectiveness of Windows Defender?
AV test
AV-Test has long existed as an independent laboratory for testing such programs and helps users make the right decisions about choosing the antivirus they need.
Windows 8 has the following results: Windows Defender v4.8 on Windows 8 / 8.1. Windows Defender scored 4.5 / 6.0 for protection, 4.5 / 6.0 for performance, and a full 6.0 / 6.0 for usability.
The main problem about Windows defender
Its central problem is minor lagging behind industry standards in fighting zero-day attacks and malware detected in the last four weeks and slowing down the computer when it scans popular websites, runs software, and copies files.
Windows 10 has poorer test results, with ratings of 3.0 / 6.0 for protection, 4.5 / 6.0 for performance, and 5.5 / 6.0 for usability.
Windows Defender has a few problems that could still be fixed, such as suddenly locking downloaded files for no reason and taking up the entire disk.
It scans and maintains your system in the background without interfering with your activities. Also, since it comes with Windows, you can use it for free without being constantly begged to buy additional products, which is a tactic of other free antivirus programs so you can stay in business.
Average antivirus defense
Windows Defender is suitable for your case if you only use the Internet to watch YouTube videos and chat on Facebook or just for parental advisory.
The moment you start dangerous activities such as downloading files, torrents, etc., you will need to protect your computer.
Limited security functionality
Cybercriminals use malware as a tool to break into computers. Using VPN is excellent when you have to deal with these threats. It blocks websites and protects your private information, while Microsoft defender doesn’t have VPN options. You’ll need an anti-malware application to protect your sensitive information.
