I've always used 3rd party anti-virus and firewall software, but it looks like windows finally offers an in-built package that means I no longer need to buy a security service. Is this advisable? I have a Kaspersky subscription and I read that they can co-exist, but removing software is always preferable if it's unnecessary. What do you think?
Windows Defender is used by many here. Running two AV solutions (in real time) side by side is not recommended.
You can use it offline, though
Regular backup should be part of it. And many here use some additional software, like preventing cryptominers via browser add in, or hosts file, extra protection for browsers, and did I mention backup?
Unless you are going to dodgy sites windows weill keep you safe
I've used Avast free for years but with the info about how it's selling user data I uninstalled it.
1. How do I ensure that Windows defender is running?
2. I can't remember the last time Avast found any virus on my system is it safe to just run with no AV other than Defender?
Thanks.
Defender is normally fine. Refer to this tutorial:Hide or Show Windows Security Notification Area Icon in Windows 10
Kaspersky software is a risk too far in my opinion. Defender is fine - I augment it with offline scans using AdwCleaner.
Last edited by Steve C; 13 Feb 2020 at 04:04.
There is an icon in Taskbar. If it has green check mark, then it's OK.
I can't remember any malware actions from WD either .. It means your browsing habits are safe.
It is difficult to make recommendations of other AV products. Also test results are very different from different organizations. Microsoft WD is usually hit by many false positives, and bad performance. And good detection rate (last year or two).
What is strange, I don't observe any performance hit, and my PC isn't some kind of beast. It is on slow side actually. Also don't get many false positive. Actually I remember only one, which is detected by almost all of the AVs.. (Nirsoft utilities).
I just use MS Defender and Malwarebytes Premium together and work flawlessly and catches all!
I've used Malwarebytes for ocassional checks without leaving it running all the time and will probably just continue to do so in addition to Defender.
Avast free was getting on my nerves even before the latest exposé because it was getting more and more intrusive, wanting to check all the websites you visit, software updates, etc., etc. Just annoying because they made it difficult to limit its involvement everywhere. Anyway, its gone now.
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