Does Windows Defender automatically update its definitions?

Yes, Windows Defender automatically updates its definitions and other software to help protect your PC from the latest threats.

Windows Defender is an integrated endpoint security platform from Microsoft that helps protect your devices from malware, spyware, viruses, and other online threats. It’s built into Windows 10 and constantly updates itself with the latest threat intelligence and malware definitions so it can better protect your PC against malicious activities.

To keep your PC safe and secure, Windows Defender’s engine and definitions should be updated regularly. This is done automatically in the background when your computer is connected to the internet. Windows also checks for updates once a day to make sure that your PC has the latest protection available.

Windows Defender uses Microsoft’s Intelligent Security Graph to help keep your computer safe. Microsoft’s Intelligent Security Graph combines real-time analytics and big data to identify and block threats more quickly and accurately. It helps filter out false positives and detect new or unknown malicious activity.

By default, Windows Defender receives daily definition updates about the latest threats and is configured to notify you and prompt you for action whenever new protection is available. You can always manually check for updates and install them by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Defender > Check for updates.

It’s important to note that the definition updates of Windows Defender are not the same as those of other third-party antivirus products. While Windows Defender may have basic protection, it doesn’t offer the level of real-time protection found in paid antivirus products.

In short, Windows Defender automatically updates its definitions so it can better protect your PC against malicious activities. However, it’s important to remember that Windows Defender isn’t a substitute for a comprehensive antivirus program. To ensure your PC is fully protected, it’s important to use a good antivirus product in addition to Windows Defender.