Windows Defender is a comprehensive security program that helps protect Windows computers against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software (malware). It has been part of the Windows operating system since Windows Vista.
Windows Defender provides three levels of protection against viruses and other malware on your computer:
1. Real-time Protection – This feature monitors computers in real time for any threats it detects. It will block, quarantine and remove any dangerous or suspicious files it finds immediately.
2. On-Demand Scanning – This allows users to perform manual scans of their systems to check for any hidden infections. Users can customize the types of files and locations they want scanned, as well as the level of detail of the scan.
3. Cloud-based Protection – This feature keeps the virus definitions up to date by utilizing cloud computing. It allows Windows Defender to be more effective at detecting new or recently discovered threats.
Windows Defender can protect against a variety of different types of viruses, including:
• Worms – These are malicious programs that use network connections to replicate themselves on multiple computers.
• Trojans – These are malicious programs disguised as legitimate applications, but contain malicious code.
• Ransomware – These are programs designed to lock users out of their devices until a ransom is paid.
• Spyware – These are malicious programs designed to collect user information such as passwords, financial data, and more.
• Adware – These are programs that display unwanted advertisements on the user’s computer.
• Rootkits – These are programs that are designed to hide themselves from detection and allow attackers to gain access to a system without being detected.
• Fake Security Software – These are malicious programs designed to look like legitimate security software, but actually install malicious code onto the user’s computer.
• Botnets – These are networks of computers that are controlled by hackers to send out spam or launch attacks on other systems.
Windows Defender also provides protection against other types of malware, such as keyloggers, rogues, hacker tools, dialers, and browser hijackers.
Overall, Windows Defender is an effective program that can provide robust protection against a wide range of viruses and other types of malware. It is important to note, however, that it is always best to keep all of your software up-to-date and practice good online habits, such as not clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files, in order to stay safe online.