Yes, Windows Defender works with other anti-virus programs. This is because Windows Defender has been designed to be compatible with third-party anti-virus programs, allowing you to use the best features of both programs to protect your computer.
When it comes to anti-virus protection, it is generally accepted that running multiple anti-virus programs on the same computer can cause conflict between the programs. To prevent this from happening, Microsoft has developed Windows Defender in such a way that it works alongside other anti-virus programs, not against them.
Windows Defender is designed to detect and remove viruses, spyware, and other malicious software that can damage or slow down your computer, as well as detect and prevent potentially unwanted applications (PUAs) from being installed on your computer. Windows Defender also includes the latest signature updates, which help keep your computer safe by detecting the latest security threats.
When two anti-virus programs are installed on the same computer, they will both perform their own respective scans to detect any potential security threats. Windows Defender and other anti-virus programs can easily coexist if the appropriate settings are enabled.
The key to successfully running two anti-virus programs at the same time is activating the right settings on each program. Many users make the mistake of disabling one program while running the other, but this is not recommended. Instead, both programs should be left running to maximize protection.
For Windows Defender to work with other anti-virus programs, users should configure the settings in both programs. Generally, Windows Defender should be configured to scan for viruses and other types of malware, while the other anti-virus program should be set to scan for PUAs and scan certain file types or folders that have been identified as containing PUAs or malicious software.
By configuring both programs correctly, users can benefit from the unique features and capabilities of each program. Windows Defender provides real-time protection against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software, while other anti-virus programs provide additional features such as deeper scanning of files and system areas, boot-time scans, and more detailed reporting. By combining the two programs’ strengths, users can optimize their computers’ security.
However, it is important to remember that Windows Defender should never be disabled or removed while running another anti-virus program, as this could leave the system vulnerable to threats.
To conclude, Windows Defender is designed to work with other anti-virus programs, allowing users to benefit from the best features of both programs. To ensure full protection, users should configure the settings in both Windows Defender and their other anti-virus program appropriately. By doing so, users can enjoy the full security capabilities of both programs, maximizing their computers’ protection against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.