Microsoft Defender Antivirus

What Microsoft Defender Antivirus is

Microsoft Defender Antivirus is Microsoft’s antivirus software for Windows 10 and Windows 11. It is available through a free plan and follows a freemium pricing model. The built-in Windows plan provides real-time, always-on protection against viruses and malware and integrates with Windows Security. Ransomware protection is included. Microsoft also lists Microsoft 365 Personal, Family, and Premium plans. Personal covers one person and up to five devices simultaneously and includes 1 TB of cloud storage. Family and Premium cover one to six people, allow up to five devices per person, and include up to 6 TB of cloud storage. The listed product scope is antivirus for Windows, while parental controls and a password manager are not included. Microsoft, headquartered in Redmond, Washington, was founded in 1975.

Who it suits

It suits Windows 10 and Windows 11 users seeking antivirus protection, including people who want to use the built-in free plan. Microsoft 365 options suit households or individuals needing the listed device and cloud-storage allowances.

Limits

The free built-in plan provides antivirus and ransomware protection but has no parental controls or password manager. Microsoft 365 Personal covers one person and up to five devices simultaneously with 1 TB storage; Family and Premium cover one to six people, up to five devices per person, and up to 6 TB storage.

Getting started

1. Open Microsoft’s comprehensive security website
2. Use a Windows 10 or Windows 11 device
3. Access the built-in Microsoft Defender Antivirus through Windows Security
4. Choose Microsoft 365 Personal, Family, or Premium if its stated coverage fits
5. Use the selected plan’s device and cloud-storage allowances

Verdict

Microsoft Defender Antivirus covers core antivirus needs on supported Windows PCs without requiring a paid plan. Microsoft 365 plans add stated people, device, and cloud-storage allowances, but the product does not list parental controls or password management.