Windows Defender is an antivirus program developed by Microsoft for Windows 7, 8, and 10. It is designed to protect users from malware and other malicious threats, and it is an integral part of the Windows operating system.
At its core, Windows Defender is an effective antivirus program that provides solid protection against viruses and other forms of malware. While it is not as advanced as some of the more popular third-party antivirus programs, such as McAfee and Norton, Windows Defender is still a formidable defense against viruses and other malicious threats.
The primary way in which Windows Defender stops viruses is by scanning files and programs that are downloaded or on the computer. The program also scans all incoming emails and web pages in order to identify any malicious code or links. These scans are done in real-time, meaning that any threats are prevented before they can cause damage to your system.
Windows Defender also has other features that can help prevent viruses from infecting your system. It uses a technology called heuristics to look for suspicious activities that might indicate that a virus is present. This technology is not foolproof, but it can help identify potential malicious software in a much faster manner than a traditional scan. Additionally, Windows Defender has a feature called Application Control, which prevents unapproved applications from running on your system.
The effectiveness of Windows Defender against viruses and other malicious software depends on a variety of factors, such as whether your system is up to date with the latest security updates, whether you have installed reliable third-party antivirus software, and whether you avoid downloading malicious software or visiting questionable websites.
Therefore, while Windows Defender is an effective tool at stopping viruses, it is not a panacea and should be used in conjunction with other forms of security. Additionally, you should always keep your system up to date with the latest security patches, install reliable third-party antivirus software, and practice safe browsing habits. By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the chances of viruses, trojans, rootkits, and other malicious threats from compromising your system.