Windows Defender is an advanced security solution for Windows built into the operating system. It is designed to protect against various types of malware and other malicious threats, including viruses, worms, Trojans, rootkits, spyware, adware, ransomware, and malicious URLs.
Viruses: A virus is a type of malicious software that replicates itself by inserting its code into legitimate programs or files, or creating new files altogether. Once inside a system, it can spread to other systems on a network, or to a drive connected to the infected computer, and can even infect the core system files, corrupting the operating system. Windows Defender monitors the system for any attempts to modify, install, or delete core kernel-level files, and identifies any malicious activity.
Worms: Worms are self-replicating malicious programs that spread themselves across networks and computers. They use up computer resources and take over system functions, allowing attackers to gain access to confidential information and perform malicious activities. Windows Defender’s heuristics-based engine scans the system for malicious worm activity, and also blocks incoming worms from entering the system.
Trojans: Trojans are malicious programs disguised as legitimate files that allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to a computer, often to steal confidential data or to perform malicious activities. Windows Defender scans for suspicious file activity, such as changes to system settings, and detects and blocks Trojans.
Rootkits: Rootkits are malicious programs that disguise themselves so that they are undetectable by normal anti-malware applications. They are designed to obscure their activities and take control of system resources without the user’s knowledge. Windows Defender’s advanced detection engine is able to detect and remove rootkits before they can cause any damage.
Spyware: Spyware is a type of malicious software that is designed to collect sensitive information from a user’s computer, such as passwords, browsing habits, and personal data. Windows Defender prevents spyware from being installed and running on the system, and detects and removes any existing spyware.
Adware: Adware is a type of malicious program that displays intrusive ads and pop-ups in the user’s web browser or on the desktop. Windows Defender scans for suspicious activities related to adware, such as installation of third-party browser extensions, execution of malicious scripts, and modification of web browser settings, and blocks them from running.
Ransomware: Ransomware is a type of malicious program that encrypts a user’s files and then demands a fee in order to decrypt them. Windows Defender includes technologies specifically designed to detect and block ransomware, including real-time scanning, white list-based application control, and cloud-based intelligence.
Malicious URLs: Malicious URLs refer to websites or webpages that contain malicious code or links that can infect a system with malware. Windows Defender monitors the web and identifies malicious URLs, and blocks them from being accessed.
Overall, Windows Defender provides comprehensive protection against a wide range of malicious threats, including viruses, worms, Trojans, rootkits, spyware, adware, ransomware, and malicious URLs. It is highly effective at detecting and blocking malicious activity, ensuring that users’ systems are protected from malware and other malicious attacks.