Windows Defender is a free antivirus program created by Microsoft designed to protect computers running Windows from malicious software. It is also referred to as Microsoft Defender. It is integrated into the Windows operating system and starts operations as soon as the system boots up.
The aim of Windows Defender is to detect, quarantine and block malicious software, such as viruses, worms, spyware and rootkits, before they can cause any damage to the computer. It also provides real-time protection against new threats that appear on the computer. This means that Windows Defender will scan any downloads and attachments, check websites for malicious content and prevent malicious programs from being installed.
Windows Defender was first introduced in 2006 as an anti-spyware program, and then it was later enhanced to become an antivirus program. Microsoft regularly updates Windows Defender’s signature database and programming code to stay ahead of malware threats.
Windows Defender is not a complete endpoint security solution since it does not protect a computer from malicious attacks other than those mentioned above. For example, it does not provide protection from malicious hacking attempts, nor does it protect against data theft or other types of cyber threats. Furthermore, Windows Defender is not designed to replace a traditional antivirus program. Instead, Microsoft recommends that users run a combination of Windows Defender and a third-party antivirus program in order to maximize their computer’s security.
In summary, Windows Defender is a free antivirus program created by Microsoft that helps protect computers running Windows from malicious software. It is not an endpoint security solution, however, and Microsoft recommends that users run a combination of Windows Defender and a third-party antivirus program in order to ensure maximum protection against cyber threats.