Yes, Windows Defender can protect against spyware and malware. Windows Defender is a security program included with Windows operating systems that is designed to detect, remove, and prevent malicious software from infecting your computer.
Windows Defender runs in the background as part of Windows, checking for programs and downloads that may be malicious or potentially unwanted. It will also check for suspicious activity on your machine and alert you if it finds anything suspicious.
Windows Defender has been around since 2006 and is regularly updated to keep up with the latest threats. It is designed to protect against a wide variety of threats, including spyware, ransomware, Trojans, worms, rootkits, and other forms of malware.
When it detects a potential threat, it sends an alert to the user and offers to take action. Most of the time, this action is simply deleting the file. However, some threats may require more advanced action, such as repairing damaged system files or setting up additional security measures.
Windows Defender also runs regular scans to look for suspicious behavior and known malicious software. These scans check for things like unusual network activity, changes in system files, signs of encryption, and other activities that could indicate an attack. If something is found, Windows Defender takes action to protect you.
Windows Defender does not, however, offer complete protection against all forms of spyware and malware. It cannot protect against zero-day exploits, which are attacks that take advantage of security flaws that have not yet been discovered or patched. It also cannot protect against attacks that use social engineering, such as phishing emails or websites that try to steal your information.
Finally, Windows Defender is only effective if it is kept up to date. Microsoft regularly releases updates that add additional protection against the latest threats, so it is important to make sure that Windows is always running the latest version of Windows Defender.
Ultimately, Windows Defender can provide strong protection against spyware and malware, but it is important to remember that it cannot provide complete protection against all forms of threats. To ensure maximum security, you should use other forms of security, such as installing anti-virus software, using caution when downloading files, and avoiding clicking on suspicious links or websites.