Windows Defender and Browsers

kme1 · 30 Dec 2018

I have seen implications in some of the posts that I have read that WD is not completely compatible with non-MS browsers. I use Edge, Firefox, and Chrome, depending on what I 'm doing and would like to know that WD works equally well on all of them. Is that the case?

I recently cancelled my Norton subscription because I am getting the sense that it was unnecessary given the current performance level of WD, provided that I exercise some discipline and caution.

Jimmy9190 · 30 Dec 2018

I have read that too, but I understand that WD protects the Windows operating system itself, regardless of which browser is used. I use Chrome most of the time and have the WD extension for Chrome enabled. The extension is really just a version of Smart Screen made for Chrome but it works very well. I also use the Avast Online Security extension and Ad Block Plus on all 3 browsers. Chrome and Firefox are pretty well secured on their own, they really have not let me step in anything bad online.

Jimmy

TairikuOkami · 30 Dec 2018

You can install K9 Web Protection made by Norton, it works against malware too, system wide.

Or install just Forticlient's web filter - it is pretty effective. Then there are extensions:
Avira, Bitdefender, Emsisoft Browser Security and Netcraft - Phishing Protection.

Windows Defender and Browsers-capture_12312018_000932.jpg

Jimmy9190 said:

and have the WD extension for Chrome enabled.

Note, that that extension is pretty much useless. It merely notifies, but it does not block anything.

PrivacyFreak · 31 Dec 2018

One has to be extremely wary of extensions they add to their browsers.

HTG: Browser Extensions Are a Privacy Nightmare: Stop Using So Many of Them

AV browser extensions can create security holes and increase the attack surface for browsers.

HTG: Don’t Use Your Antivirus’ Browser Extensions: They Can Actually Make You Less Safe

Although these articles are a bit dated, the general advice is still sound. If inevitable, reputation, trust and a risk vs. benefit analysis are major factors in choosing a safe browser extension.