Overview
- Microsoft updated its public guidance to say the built‑in Microsoft Defender provides sufficient antivirus protection for most people using Windows 11.
- Defender is active by default, tightly integrated with the operating system, and receives continuous updates to block malicious files and phishing sites.
- Microsoft says some users may still want third‑party tools for needs like managing many devices, sharing a family PC, parental controls, identity monitoring, or enterprise oversight.
- The company warns that each added security app increases background activity and can cause slowdowns, and PCWorld notes that running more than one real‑time scanner can create conflicts.
- Forbes reports the message targets a Windows 11 base of more than 500 million users, as improved built‑in defenses since Windows 10 lessen the need for separate antivirus even as third‑party options remain well reviewed by testers like CNET.