No, Windows Defender is not enough protection from viruses.
Windows Defender, originally released as Microsoft Security Essentials in 2009, is the built-in antivirus and antispyware application for Windows operating systems. It is a free utility that has been included in all versions of Windows since Windows 8. As the name implies, its main purpose is to protect your Windows computer from malicious files and software, such as viruses, malware, spyware, and ransomware.
While Windows Defender can be an adequate form of protection for Windows users, it is important to note that it does have some significant limitations. For example, Windows Defender does not offer any proactive protection. This means that it does not actively monitor and detect malicious code, malware, and other cyber threats, but instead relies on users to update their definitions and scan periodically. As such, it may be too slow to detect and remove a virus before it has caused any damage.
Moreover, Windows Defender only provides basic protection and can easily be bypassed or outsmarted by advanced and sophisticated forms of malicious code. For example, many modern-day viruses use evasive techniques to hide from Windows Defender. Furthermore, Windows Defender may not be enough protection against targeted threats or zero-day exploits (unpatched vulnerabilities). Additionally, many popular malicious programs, such as rootkits, keyloggers, and cryptocurrency miners, are totally invisible and undetectable to Windows Defender.
Finally, Windows Defender can only protect the devices in which it is installed, so if any of your personal devices are connected to the same network and running a different antivirus program, they will not be protected.
In short, Windows Defender is a decent antivirus option for beginners, but it might not be enough to protect your computer from the more advanced threats out there. To ensure maximum security and optimal protection, it is recommended to supplement Windows Defender with another antivirus program, such as Kaspersky, McAfee, or Nortons. Such solutions offer comprehensive protection, including advanced features such as real-time monitoring, proactive protection, and automatic updates.