Windows Defender is a security suite included with Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, and Windows RT that provides basic anti-malware protection. It is designed to detect, remove, and protect against malicious software, including viruses, spyware, Trojans, rootkits, and worms. While Windows Defender offers a good level of protection for many users, some may still want to consider using a third-party antivirus program for added security.
The most important reason why someone may want to use a third-party antivirus program is for improved detection and protection. While Windows Defender does a decent job of protecting against known threats, it may not be able to detect or protect against new threats as quickly or as effectively as a third-party program. This is because third-party programs are often updated more frequently, have larger databases of known viruses, and can sometimes detect malware before it has a chance to do any damage. Additionally, third-party antivirus programs often include features such as web filtering, parental controls, and password managers, which are not included in Windows Defender.
Third-party antivirus programs can also help improve performance. Although Windows Defender does not impose a large burden on computer resources, third-party programs can be more efficient and help improve the performance of your computer. Furthermore, many third-party programs allow you to customize how they scan your computer, allowing you to scan certain folders or files more often than others.
Additionally, third-party antivirus programs can provide better support. If you have problems with Windows Defender, you may have difficulty finding assistance. For example, the Microsoft support page only provides information on how to use the program; it does not offer technical assistance. By contrast, third-party antivirus programs typically provide technical support, so if you run into any issues, you can contact the company’s customer service department for help.
Finally, third-party antivirus programs generally have more features than Windows Defender. For example, many programs allow you to schedule scans, set up automatic updates, or customize how the program behaves. This can help keep your computer even more secure and make it easier to manage your security settings.
Ultimately, whether or not to use a third-party antivirus program is a personal decision. If you would like additional protection, then a third-party program could be beneficial. However, if you already feel secure with Windows Defender, then you may not need to use one.