Advice Request Microsoft Defender alone?

[blueblackwow65]

Hi just wanted to ask ,I got a clean install done of win10 pro and I am running WD for a test run ,just didn't want to install a third part av .I use this computer 1-2 times a week an older machine.Is WD enough with simplewall or should I add something like Wisevector or Voodooshield?THks

 

[EndangeredPootis]

If you use ConfigureDefender and Hard_Configurator then it is more than enough, though, as always, you should always use common sense and harden your system.

 

[koloveli]

windows defender is very basic, but impoved...

 

[silversurfer]

Hi just wanted to ask ,I got a clean install done of win10 pro and I am running WD for a test run ,just didn't want to install a third part av .I use this computer 1-2 times a week an older machine.Is WD enough with simplewall or should I add something like Wisevector or Voodooshield?THks

Highly recommended to add Configure Defender and another tool below from @Andy Ful

New Update - Simple Windows Hardening

Post updated in September 2024. SWH works with Windows 10 and 11 (all versions including 24H2) SWH ver. 2.1.1.1 - July 2023 (added support for Windows 11 ver. 22H2) https://github.com/AndyFul/Hard_Configurator/raw/master/Simple%20Windows%20Hardening/SimpleWindowsHardening_2111.zip SWH ver...

malwaretips.com

Or instead you can using together with WD(MD) just what you already mentioned: VoodooShield

 

[Arequire]

Add an ad blocker to your browser(s) and employ safe browsing habits. With that, Defender is good enough.

 

[Templarware]

Windows Defender and Malwarebytes Windows Firewall Control.

 

[Ink]

Microsoft Defender Antivirus is absolutely capable of preventing viruses and malware, coupled with a modern browser such as Microsoft Edge for SmartScreen/PUA protection or Firefox/Chromium with Google SafeBrowsing, you can safely surf the web. A trusted content blocker is recommended for all browsers, either built-in like Brave or an extension (uBlock Origin). For hassle-free browsing, you can choose a Secure DNS with malware blocking.

There is very little need to stack multiple real-time protections when most can be blocked passively.

Is MDA a Basic Antivirus? It is not.

A layered approach is superior to most all-in-one Suites out there - see above.

Microsoft have made massive improvements from it's earlier generations (Windows Live OneCare, Forefront for endpoints, Microsoft Security Essentials, Windows Defender for Windows 8). It's also designed to work silently unlike many noisy Antivirus software, which lead you to make impulsive, and generally poor decisions.

Microsoft's Defender is completely free and does not require a Microsoft Account. Whereas third-party solutions may also require personal information such as your Name, Address, and Card details for on-going paid subscriptions, or registering a free license.

When comparing Microsoft Defender Antivirus to third-party security, most comparisons or sponsored-by sites do not included other Windows Security features that are found exclusively within Windows 10.

All opinions are strictly my own.

 

[Minimalist]

If you practise safe computing, MD is enough. I would only add addblocker and backup data.

 

[CyberDevil]

If you practise safe computing, MD is enough.

I have never understood the line between safe and unsafe use of a computer when talking about choosing an antivirus solution. Since if the user is very cautious and experienced enough, then why would he even spend PC resources on an antivirus? Especially on something as heavy as WD? I think if there are still some concerns, then maybe talking about careful / not careful habits is not a good topic?

I add something like Wisevector

I think that's a good idea. It is very light, so it will not be visible in the system even with WD. At the same time, installation and use does not require any skills at all.

 

[Arequire]

I have never understood the line between safe and unsafe use of a computer when talking about choosing an antivirus solution. Since if the user is very cautious and experienced enough, then why would he even spend PC resources on an antivirus?

Because there are infection vectors that the user has no control over, and using some form of protection provides a chance to mitigate any potential infection initiated via those vectors.

 

[CyberDevil]

Because there are infection vectors that the user has no control over, and using some form of protection provides a chance to mitigate any potential infection initiated via those vectors.

For example? If user check absolutely all downloaded files on VirusTotal, as well as use the browser in https-only mode with any popular extension to protect against phishing. What else can an antivirus mitigate? Even if we look at the statistics of Malwarebytes, you can see that, for example, exploits are so rare that you can not find any in real life in your entire life.

I'm not saying that anti-viruses are not needed, since a person tends to make mistakes, he may forget to check the file safety, at least, but in my opinion, guys should to choose a security solution based on the price / scenario of using the computer (games, banking, etc.) / confinguration of the computer, instead of saying that some antivirus is sufficient if you are careful. =)

 

[Arequire]

For example? If user check absolutely all downloaded files on VirusTotal, as well as use the browser in https-only mode with any popular extension to protect against phishing. What else can an antivirus mitigate? Even if we look at the statistics of Malwarebytes, you can see that, for example, exploits are so rare that you can not find any in real life in your entire life.

I'm not saying that anti-viruses are not needed, since a person tends to make mistakes, he may forget to check the file security, at least, but in my opinion, guys should to choose a security solution based on the price / scenario of using the computer (games, banking, etc.) / confinguration of the computer, instead of saying that some antivirus is sufficient if you are careful. =)

My main point was going to be exploits but you already answered that. I haven't looked at the MWB statistics but if they're that rare my example becomes moot.
One thing an AV might catch is malicious code inserted into legitimate websites. Skimmers for capturing card details, for example.

I agree people should choose whatever solution fits their needs, but I don't subscribe to the idea that the choice of AV makes a significant difference in terms of protection if you're practicing safe habits. Just having an ad blocker eliminates the main non-self-initiated vector of infection, and if you're already treating every link/download with suspicion it's unlikely you'll ever come across malware in the first place.

 

[show-Zi]

If you read @blueblackwow65 's first post, you will see that it is an old pc that is used several times a week. I think the reference to this condition should be separate from the general safety discussion.

I have a pc that I use in a similar configuration, and unless I'm going to be Indiana Jones and go on a ridiculous adventure, WD is good enough for me. my only complaint about WD is the way it handles unsigned, obscure online software.

 

[Back3]

Microsoft Defender+ Configure Defender+ a good add blocker+ Microsoft Defender Browser protection on Chrome+ a backup system, and you're all set.

 

[cliffspab]

Of course.

I've never known any normal person who uses their computer for basic stuff, and has a life away from the screen, have problems with malware.

Like the other poster said, just get an adblocker for your own convenience and ease of use. Possibly the Adguard browser extension as it's simpler to use than uBlock Origin but cosmetically more 'beautifying' without with default settings. Adguards lists are great too, they never break anything but catch most ads.

I say all this as someone who wastes an inordinate amount of time tinkering with my laptop to make improvements that have a barely infinitesimal impact on my overall quality of life.

 

[Frib004]

Hi just wanted to ask ,I got a clean install done of win10 pro and I am running WD for a test run ,just didn't want to install a third part av .I use this computer 1-2 times a week an older machine.Is WD enough with simplewall or should I add something like Wisevector or Voodooshield?THks

Yes, Defender is basic, but enough if you don't want to install a third party AV...

 

[Nightwater]

If you want to get infected, go ahead. There are only 4 companies you can trust to protect your system that are 100% security focused: Kaspersky, Norton, F-Secure and GDATA.

 

[ForgottenSeer 85179]

If you want to get infected, go ahead. There are only 4 companies you can trust to protect your system that are 100% security focused: Kaspersky, Norton, F-Secure and GDATA.

yeah...sure:

Norton 360 antivirus now lets you mine Ethereum cryptocurrency

NortonLifelock has added the ability to mine Ethereum cryptocurrency directly within its Norton 360 antivirus program as a way to "protect" users from malicious mining software. This new mining feature is called 'Norton Crypto' and will be rolling out tomorrow to Norton 360 users enrolled in...

malwaretips.com

100% protection never exists, and AVs are on last position on security concepts.

 

[show-Zi]

If you want to get infected, go ahead. There are only 4 companies you can trust to protect your system that are 100% security focused: Kaspersky, Norton, F-Secure and GDATA.

Microsoft is focused on OS and Office. In that sense, your opinion is correct.

yeah...sure:

Norton 360 antivirus now lets you mine Ethereum cryptocurrency

NortonLifelock has added the ability to mine Ethereum cryptocurrency directly within its Norton 360 antivirus program as a way to "protect" users from malicious mining software. This new mining feature is called 'Norton Crypto' and will be rolling out tomorrow to Norton 360 users enrolled in...

malwaretips.com

100% protection never exists, and AVs are on last position on security concepts.

I agree. AV is an auxiliary device such as an automobile airbag or ABS.

 

[blueblackwow65]

Thanks for all replies ,still using WD,and pretty good .Is there a place to see where updates are downloaded or how frequent in windows for WD?
Only other good av's are Wisevector and Kaspersky- a pain to install the free version(account).