Is Windows Defender compatible with other antivirus?

Windows Defender, the antivirus integrated in the OS Windows 10 and Windows 11, is a recurring theme in the field of ciberseguridad. Many people wonder if this free software is sufficient to protect your devices or if it is necessary to complement your system with another, more robust antivirus. In the following sections, we will address all the features, advantages and limitations of this tool, as well as explore alternatives and complementary solutions.

Despite being a free and pre-installed option, Windows Defender has received criticism and praise alike. Its capabilities of protection against the malware, its direct integration with the operating system and its regular updates are elements that, for some, make it an essential tool. However, there are also doubts about whether it is effective enough for advanced threats, such as zero day attacks o ransomwareLet's dive into each of these aspects so you can decide if it's the right option for you.

Windows Defender profiling

Windows Defender is the antivirus protection system developed by Microsoft that comes integrated by default in modern versions of this operating system. Since its initial conception, the objective was to offer a free, simple and functional alternative for users, which did not require the download or installation of additional programs to protect their computers.

Main features

• Full integration with Windows: Being designed by Microsoft, Windows Defender offers seamless integration with the system, enabling a fluid and uninterrupted user experience.
• Real-time protection: The software constantly monitors and analyzes files and data, blocking threats before they can cause damage.
• Frequent updates: Thanks to automatic updates via Windows Update, is always prepared to face new malware variants.
• Integrated Firewall: In addition to the antivirus engine, it includes a tool to manage the computer's incoming and outgoing connections.

Advantages

Windows Defender stands out in several aspects that make it an option to consider:

• Free and pre-installed: It does not require additional installation or financial investment.
• Moderate resource consumption: Ideal for devices with hardware limited.
• Easy to use: The interface is simple and intuitive, making it easy to use even for non-expert users.

Limitations

However, there are also disadvantages that can be decisive depending on the user:

• Basic protection: Although effective against common threats, it is not as effective against advanced or sophisticated attacks.
• Performance affected: On certain systems, it may cause a slight slowdown during scans.
• Does not include features like sandbox: Advanced features that are present in premium options are missing.

Is Windows Defender enough?

This is one of the big questions that lingers in the minds of many users. It will depend on the type of activity you perform on your PC. If you are someone who maintains safe browsing habits, such as visiting only trusted sites and avoiding downloading files from dubious sources, Windows Defender may be more than enough.

However, if you frequent public networks, downloads If you frequently download content from suspicious sites or handle highly sensitive data, you may need a complementary system that provides an additional layer of protection.

Alternatives to improve protection

There are numerous antiviruses on the market that can complement or replace Windows DefenderThese options stand out for offering advanced functions such as VPN, anti-phishing o digital keychains for passwords, among others.

free options

• Avira Free Antivirus: Provides basic malware protection and a repair system for damaged files.
• Panda Free Antivirus: Includes automatic scanning and protection for devices USB.
• Avg Antivirus: Provides immediate phishing alerts and email attachment control.

Payment options

• Kaspersky Internet Security: Renowned for its powerful firewall and advanced blocking system.
• Bitdefender Total Security: A complete solution that covers protection for mobile devices.
• Norton 360: Includes features like built-in VPN and identity theft protection.

Is it advisable to use two antiviruses?

One of the common mistakes when trying to improve security is to install two antivirus programs to double the protection. However, this can backfire. Having two antivirus programs running simultaneously can cause conflicts on the system, slowdown and even false detections. An alternative solution may be to disable overlapping functions in one of the two programs.

Instead, it is recommended to use complementary tools that do not interfere with the main function of the antivirus.

How to disable Windows Defender

If you decide to install another antivirus program, it is essential to disable Windows Defender to avoid conflicts. Here are some methods to do so:

From system configuration

1. Access “Windows Security” from the start menu.
2. Go to “Virus & threat protection.”
3. Disable all available options.

From the registry editor

1. Open the registry editor by typing “regedit” in the Windows search bar.
2. Navigate to the Windows Defender configuration path.
3. Create a new DWORD value and assign a value of 1.

These options allow a complete disabling of the built-in antivirus, but make sure you have another security system in place before proceeding.

Windows Defender is an adequate solution for users with basic activities on their devices. However, for those who need greater security and advanced features, there are various alternatives that can adapt to their needs. Evaluating the available options and maintaining good security practices are essential steps to protect any device in the digital age.