Microsoft Defender Antivirus

Winsage
August 4, 2025
The transition to Windows 11 often requires new hardware, but purchasing a new PC does not guarantee improved security. Users should verify that the latest version of Windows 11 is installed and configure data protection settings, including diagnostic data options. Activating Windows Security, which includes Microsoft Defender Antivirus and a firewall, is advisable, and users should ensure compatibility with third-party antivirus solutions. Creating a system restore point and establishing automatic backups is crucial. Most devices support Secure Boot and TPM 2.0, which should be verified in BIOS or UEFI settings. Users should also remove unnecessary pre-installed software that may pose risks. Ongoing maintenance and updates are essential for maintaining security on a Windows 11 PC.
Tech Optimizer
August 1, 2025
Microsoft Defender is the default antivirus solution for Windows users, offering real-time alerts and a built-in firewall. TotalAV is a notable alternative that provides a range of features, including an ad blocker, data breach monitoring, and performance optimization tools. Both Microsoft Defender and TotalAV have a protection rate of 99.1%. TotalAV includes features like anti-phishing measures, a VPN service, and a password manager with 256-bit AES encryption. Microsoft Defender is free with Windows, while TotalAV has three pricing tiers: Premium, Internet Security, and Total Security, with prices starting at .95 per year. Microsoft Defender offers basic customer support, while TotalAV provides 24/7 dedicated support and a knowledge base.
Winsage
July 9, 2025
A lifetime license for Windows 11 Pro is available for .97, a 95% discount from the standard retail price of 9.99, until July 15 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Windows 10 support will end in October 2025. Windows 11 Pro features include BitLocker device encryption, Secure Boot, Microsoft Defender Antivirus, DirectX 12 Ultimate support for gaming, Microsoft Copilot AI for productivity, and optimized performance for Intel and AMD chips.
Tech Optimizer
June 27, 2025
Over 7,000 of the more than 15,000 Model Context Protocol servers are currently accessible via the internet, and many are affected by the "NeighborJack" vulnerability, which allows unauthorized access to anyone on the same local network. This raises concerns about potential data breaches and security risks as AI technologies become more integrated into various sectors.
Winsage
June 26, 2025
Microsoft has announced an extension of Windows 10 support until October 2026 at no additional cost, affecting approximately 400 million users. This extension was previously set to end in October 2025. Users with eligible PCs for an upgrade number around 400 million, while about 240 million are not eligible. The extension includes Security Intelligence Updates for Microsoft Defender Antivirus on Windows 10 through October 2028, but it is a one-year arrangement and not full security support. Users can enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program through options like cloud backup, reward points, or a fee, and this feature will be available to all users in the coming weeks.
Winsage
June 24, 2025
Windows has been the most widely used operating system globally since its launch in 1985, currently powering over a billion active devices each month. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, meaning Microsoft will stop providing security and feature updates, as well as technical support for Windows 10 PCs. Users can check their eligibility for upgrading to Windows 11 through the Settings menu or the PC Health Check app. Windows 11 features enhanced security, improved performance, and a modern user interface, with built-in accessibility tools and AI capabilities. The Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will provide critical security updates for personal devices from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026. Organizations can subscribe to ESU for continued security updates for a year, with the option to renew annually. Windows 365 offers a cloud-based solution for transitioning to Windows 11 without needing to replace all devices immediately. Various Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs are available from partners like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Samsung, and Surface.
Winsage
May 26, 2025
Microsoft encourages users to adopt the latest version of Windows or a version eligible for monthly security updates to protect against security threats. Older Windows ISOs are vulnerable due to outdated security updates and antimalware software. Microsoft has released an update for Microsoft Defender to enhance the security of these older Windows images. This update includes the latest Microsoft Defender binaries, which must be applied offline to WIM and VHD files for Windows 11, Windows 10 (Enterprise, Pro, Home), Windows Server 2022, 2019, and 2016. The update improves both the anti-malware client and engine, with package sizes of 78.2 MB for ARM64, 128 MB for x86, and 132 MB for x64 systems. Users need a 64-bit version of Windows 10 or later, PowerShell 5.1 or later, and specific modules to implement the update. Regular updates every three months are recommended for optimal security.
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