Microsoft’s built-in antivirus program that is now known as Windows Security, doesn’t require a subscription or installation and therefore offers an abundance of value for no cost. The product is incredibly well-regarded by the world’s most renowned testing labs for AV and provides robust protection against malware, without affecting system performance. It has some extras like ransomware protection as well as a password manager and other useful features. It’s not equipped with some of most important features that are found in premium antivirus suites and isn’t particularly user-friendly.
Protection against threats and viruses includes the usual speedy, complete and custom scans. It also includes an intensive offline scan mode to combat difficult-to-get rid of threats. The firewall and network module is easy to use, but it’s not as extensive than other options. Its biggest drawback is that it only protects Windows devices. If you want to protect an Android or Mac phone, you will have to choose another option.
Family options include parental controls as well as the capability to monitor the health of your family’s devices. There’s a password manager that is hidden within the Edge browser and is able to sync to your other devices. The downside is that you aren’t able to control the features directly through the app, and must use a web browser to do so.
It is different from other antivirus programs because it does not connect itself into the Windows Kernel. This can create new attack surfaces for hackers and weaken an operating system. It also provides good behavior detection and stops users from accidentally downloading malicious files.
