Microsoft Windows Defender (64-bit)
With Windows Defender, Microsoft’s antispyware tool, the company slips a little open-source camaraderie through the door. Windows Defender’s interface is clean and informative. Icons are logically placed in tabs, and the software is easily set to run unattended daily. Be sure to check the requirements, as many older systems cannot run this software.
Defender installs easily and updates quickly. The program’s home page changes to display needed commands, such as download updates. The Full Scan is fast, but total scan time depends on your system and hard-drive size. The Quick Scan scans the most vulnerable areas and lives up to its name. Power users will want to configure Custom Scan; it’s easy and scans only your selected areas. Vista users will notice that Defender includes extra options not found in versions for other Windows operating systems.
The power in antispyware is detecting and defeating new problems. Defender’s SpyNet component lets users easily upload information about new problems. From those uploads, Windows quickly updates its spyware file, and users can simply check at SpyNet for solutions to spyware found on their PCs. Available only for validated Windows OS users, this powerful software operates quickly and easily. Novice users can practically set it and forget it; power users will find it easy to personalize to their systems.
WHAT’S NEW IN VERSION 1.1.1
Windows Defender helps protect your computer against pop-ups, slow performance, and security threats caused by spyware and other unwanted software. Windows Defender features Real-Time Protection, a monitoring system that recommends actions against spyware when it’s detected, minimizes interruptions, and helps you stay productive.