Does Windows Defender also protect against malware?

Yes, Windows Defender provides protection against malware. In fact, Windows Defender is a comprehensive security solution that provides protection against a variety of threats such as viruses, spyware, worms, Trojans, and rootkits.

Windows Defender works in several different ways to protect against malware. It uses a combination of real-time scanning, system and application hardening, cloud-based protection, and behavior monitoring.

Real-time scanning is the main way that Windows Defender helps protect your computer from malware. Windows Defender scans incoming files and applications for known malware. If it detects any suspicious activity, it will take action to block the threat and alert you of the issue.

In addition to real-time scanning, Windows Defender also employs system and application hardening strategies to help protect against malware. Application hardening works by limiting access to certain parts of the Windows operating system. This prevents hackers and malware from being able to tamper with certain parts of the system, ensuring that the system remains secure.

Windows Defender also relies on cloud-based protection, which works by providing a remote repository of known malicious software. This allows the system to update its local database with new threats so that it can provide better protection against emerging threats.

Finally, Windows Defender also utilizes behavior monitoring to help detect and block suspicious activities on your computer. Behavior monitoring works by tracking how your computer is being used, and flagging activities that are potentially malicious. It stops suspicious activities before they can damage your system, keeping your computer safe from malware.

Overall, Windows Defender provides comprehensive protection against a variety of malware threats. It offers real-time scanning, system and application hardening, cloud-based protection, and behavior monitoring to help detect and block malicious programs. This multi-layered approach helps ensure that your computer remains protected from the latest threats.