Microsoft will automatically install Defender antivirus software on Windows 10 and 11 devices with 365 Family and Personal subscriptions via an update in late February. The application will also be added to the Microsoft 365 installer.

Until now, the installation of Microsoft Defender was optional, but it, like other 365 apps such as Word and Excel, will now be automatically installed for non-business users with subscriptions. That writes Microsoft on its support site, such as Neowin discovered. When non-subscribers decide to bring in 365 apps via the installer, Defender will also be installed along with the other apps. Microsoft reports that that should all be done ‘by the end of February. Some users report on Twitter that the tool is already on their computer. Incidentally, users do have to log into the application before the antivirus software becomes active.

Microsoft Defender is a different product from Windows Security, which is built into every Windows PC by default. The latter includes Microsoft Defender Antivirus, which detects and removes malware. The stand-alone Microsoft Defender is available only with a 365 subscription. In addition to malware protection, this tool includes ‘Web security, real-time security notifications and security tips., writes Microsoft. In addition, unlike Windows security, it is also usable on smartphones and Macs. It also includes an exclusive feature which monitors online identity fraud, although for now it is only available to 365 subscribers in the US. It is expected to come to Europe but could take up to a year.

At Analyst ICT we use Sophos security solutions, we do not see Microsoft Defender as a replacement for most of our customers. If you have any questions about this please contact contact with us.

Source: Tweakers