The cybersecurity landscape is ever-changing as new threats keep emerging and transforming the ways we secure networks. Microsoft Defender provides a solid defense against all such threats at no extra cost. Now, to protect computers running Windows and other OS, Microsoft has rolled out Defender for individuals for Windows, Android, iOS, and Linux platforms.
Microsoft Defender now available on all platforms
Apart from small and large business organizations, attacks against individuals have witnessed an upward trend. Research findings reveal there are 921 password attacks every second. This makes it even more important to increase personal defenses.
I’m excited to share the availability of Microsoft Defender for individuals, a new online security application for Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscribers. We believe every person and family should feel safe online. This is an exciting step in our journey to bring security to all and I’m thrilled to share with you more about this new app, available with features for you to try today, wrote Vasu Jakkal, Corporate Vice President, Security, Compliance, Identity, and Management in a blog post.
Our digital footprints continue to grow as more and more people are embracing technology. Naturally, the time spent online is rising and making people more vulnerable than ever. Also, with more devices and family members online, protecting your personal data and devices has become paramount. What Microsoft Defender essentially does is bring multiple protections together into a single dashboard, thereby ensuring all-around protection.
The seamless solution, which includes continuous antivirus and anti-phishing protection for your data and devices, enables you to do the following.
- Manage your security protections and view security protections for everyone in your family, from a single easy-to-use, centralized dashboard.
- View your existing antivirus protection (such as Norton or McAfee).
- Extend Windows device protections to iOS, Android, and macOS devices for cross-platform malware protection on the devices you and your family use the most.
- Receive instant security alerts, resolution strategies, and expert tips to help keep your data and devices secure.
Microsoft assures us to bring more protections for Defender together under a single dashboard. Microsoft Defender offers easy-to-use online protection for you, your family, and your devices. It is available for download here from Microsoft with your Microsoft 365 subscription.
Do I need a Microsoft 365 subscription to use Microsoft Defender?
Yes, you do need a Microsoft 365 subscription to use Microsoft Defender
Is Microsoft Defender built into the Windows operating system?
No, it is not. Windows Defender or Microsoft Defender Antivirus is built into Windows and will continue to remain free.