In windows 10, ____________________ provides both antivirus and antispyware capabilities.

If you’re running a supported version of Windows, you’ve already got Microsoft Defender Antivirus built in, helping to protect you against viruses, spyware, and other malware.

Malware consists of viruses, spyware and other potentially unwanted software. Microsoft Defender Antivirus is free and is included in Windows, always on and always working to protect your PC against malware.

Hackers and scammers sometimes use fake antimalware software to trick you into installing viruses or malware on your computer. Should you wish to explore alternatives to the already installed or available Microsoft antimalware software on your Windows PC, the reputable security companies listed below provide consumer security software that is compatible with Windows. Just click the company name to see the Windows-compatible product they offer.

For business security software that is compatible with Windows, please contact your security vendor of choice.

Many companies, including those listed on this page, distribute antimalware software. You should carefully investigate the source of antimalware and other products before downloading and installing them. 

To learn more about protecting your Windows device see Stay protected with Windows Security.

Important: Microsoft Defender Antivirus will turn off if you install another antimalware program to protect your PC. Before you install antimalware software, check to make sure you don't already have another 3rd party antimalware product on your computer. If you do, be sure to remove the product you don't want before you install the new one. It can cause problems on your computer to have two different antimalware products installed and running at the same time.

Note: The antivirus providers listed on this page might be unavailable for your version of Windows or in your country or region.

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Turn on Microsoft Defender Antivirus to access company resources

  • Article
  • 08/23/2021
  • 2 minutes to read

In this article

Organizations want to ensure that devices accessing their resources are secured, so they may require you to use Microsoft Defender Antivirus and additional Windows Security features. Microsoft Defender Antivirus is an antivirus software that's included in Windows and can help protect your device from viruses, malware, and other threats.

This article describe how to update your device settings to meet your organization's antivirus requirements and resolve access problems.

Turn on Microsoft Defender Antivirus

Complete the following steps to turn on Microsoft Defender Antivirus on your device.

  1. Select the Start menu.
  2. In the search bar, type group policy. Then select Edit group policy from the listed results. The Local Group Policy Editor will open.
  3. Select Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
  4. Scroll to the bottom of the list and select Turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
  5. Select Disabled or Not configured. It might feel counter-intuitive to select these options because the names suggest that you're turning Microsoft Defender Antivirus off. Don't worry, these options actually ensure that it's turned on.
  6. Select Apply > OK.

Turn on real-time and cloud-delivered protection

Complete the following steps to turn on real-time and cloud-delivered protection. Together, these antivirus features protect you against spyware and can deliver fixes for malware issues via the cloud.

  1. Select the Start menu.
  2. In the search bar, type Windows Security. Select the matching result.
  3. Select Virus & threat protection.
  4. Under Virus & threat protection settings, select Manage settings.
  5. Flip each switch under Real-time protection and Cloud-delivered protection to turn them on.

If you don't see these options on your screen, they may be hidden. Complete the following steps to make them visible.

  1. Select the Start menu.
  2. In the search bar, type group policy. Then select Edit group policy from the listed results. The Local Group Policy Editor will open.
  3. Select Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Security > Virus and threat protection.
  4. Select Hide the Virus and threat protection area.
  5. Select Disabled > Apply > OK.

Update your antivirus definitions

Complete the following steps to update your antivirus definitions.

  1. Select the Start menu.
  2. In the search bar, type Windows Security. Select the matching result.
  3. Select Virus & threat protection.
  4. Under Virus & threat protection updates, select Check for updates. If you don't see this option on your screen, complete the first set of steps in Turn on Real-time Protection. Then try checking for updates again.

Next steps

Still need help? Contact your support person. To find your organization's contact information, sign in to the Company Portal website.

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Does Windows 10 have antivirus?

Windows 10 and 11 include Windows Security, which provides the latest antivirus protection. Your device will be actively protected from the moment you start Windows. Windows Security continually scans for malware (malicious software), viruses, and security threats.

Is third

Although Windows 10 has built-in antivirus protection in the form of Windows Defender, it still needs additional software, either Defender for Endpoint or a third-party antivirus. That is because Windows Defender lacks endpoint protection as well as full-service investigation and remediation of threats.

What is the name of the software that can be used for data protection in Windows 10?

Malware consists of viruses, spyware and other potentially unwanted software. Microsoft Defender Antivirus is free and is included in Windows, always on and always working to protect your PC against malware.

Which software is installed on computer for security?

Firewall has an essential role in safeguarding your PC. It can block unauthorized remote attempts to access your computer as well as attempts to transfer data by locally installed programs.