Windows Defender is a malware protection tool that is included by default on Windows computers, offering basic protection against malicious software. The tool works by continually monitoring your computer and, when a suspicious piece of software is found, blocking it and alerting you to its presence. Although the tool is included by default on Windows devices, in order to work effectively it requires an internet connection.
Using an internet connection, Windows Defender is able to constantly update and receive new definitions of various malicious software, as well as send out information and reports about any malicious software that has been discovered on your device. Without an internet connection, Windows Defender would not be able to update itself or send out data, meaning that it would be limited in its ability to detect and block malicious threats.
Without an internet connection, Windows Defender is also unable to access cloud-based protections such as Microsoft’s online reputation service, which helps protect your device from unknown and emerging threats. This means that if it is unable to connect to the internet, your device is more vulnerable to attacks from malicious software, as Windows Defender is unable to detect and block them.
It is therefore essential that, in order for Windows Defender to provide comprehensive protection, it is connected to the internet. Without an internet connection, Windows Defender is unable to update itself, access cloud-based protections, or send out reports about detected malicious software, leaving your device vulnerable to malicious attacks.
In addition to having an internet connection, there are other important steps you can take to help ensure that your device is protected from malicious software. These include enabling automatic updates, making sure you have the latest version of Windows installed, and regularly running scans on your device. You should also be wary of clicking on links and downloading files from untrusted sources. Additionally, it is important to be aware of potential phishing scams, as these can be used to install malicious software onto your device without your knowledge.
In summary, although Windows Defender is included by default on Windows devices, it requires an internet connection in order to function effectively and provide comprehensive protection against malicious software. It is therefore important to ensure that your device is connected to the internet whenever possible, in order to maximise the protection provided by Windows Defender. Additionally, there are other steps you can take to help ensure your device is secure, such as enabling automatic updates, making sure Windows is up-to-date, regularly running scans, and avoiding untrusted sources.