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Windows Defender offers several optional protections.
Some security settings are disabled by default.
Enable extra settings one at a time to avoid conflicts.
Protecting your Windows PC against security threats is critical. You want to make sure your personal files aren't vulnerable to viruses, malware, and other threats. But how do you best defend yourself, your computer, and your data?
Third-party security tools are always an option. Some are free; others are paid. Some offer basic protection; others provide additional features to tackle more advanced threats. Alternatively, Microsoft's own built-in Windows Defender can track down viruses and other dangers.
Also: Is turning off Windows Security a bad idea in 2026? A PC expert's bottom line
In a recent Learning Center post, Microsoft argued that Defender is usually sufficient as long as you keep the default protections turned on, regularly install the latest security updates, and you're careful about where and how you download software. Extra security software might be in order if you want other services, such as identity monitoring or parental controls.
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