Windows Defender is a security application developed by Microsoft for devices running the Windows operating system. It offers protection against malware, spyware, and other forms of malicious software. Windows Defender is available for all versions of Windows since Windows XP, including Windows 8, 10, Server 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2019.
Windows Defender is built into Windows and is always on, scanning files and programs that are downloaded from the Internet. Additionally, it can scan files and programs on demand with a user-initiated scan.
Windows Defender also offers real-time protection to detect and block viruses, worms, Trojan horses, rootkits, and other malicious software before they have a chance to do any harm. This protection is available in all supported versions of Windows.
Windows Defender is compatible with the following operating systems:
• Windows XP SP3 or higher
• Windows Vista SP1 or higher
• Windows 7
• Windows 8
• Windows 8.1
• Windows 10
• Windows Server 2008
• Windows Server 2012
• Windows Server 2016
• Windows Server 2019
In addition to Windows Defender, Microsoft also offers standalone antivirus and antispyware applications called Microsoft Security Essentials and Microsoft Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP). These are available for download and offer protection more comprehensive than Windows Defender. They are compatible with Windows Vista and later operating systems, including Windows 10.