Using Windows defender as a primary antivirus

[FAHMI BASSEM]

I think Avast make my w8.1 slow, so I need your help with this:
Can I use Windows defender only? And is there any recommended antivirus?
Thanks

 

[Connor Price]

I use Avast with W8.1 and I've not noticed any slow downs. Avira is low on resources so it shouldn't cause any slow downs. However, I know at some stage they would bombard you with adverts to buy their full version. I have no idea if they still do. Honestly, I would say you'll be just fine with Windows Defender.

 

[yarvelling]

Defender is OK, but even Microsoft have stated that it's a very basic AV system.....
In the past, I've used defender and also had the Malwarebytes anti-malware software as a back-up; you'd be surprised by what it'll catch that Defender misses!
With those two together, you have a reasonable level of protection

 

[teckris]

i have a PC and laptop that just uses MS SECURITY ESSENTIALS [DEFENDER] and had been safe so far after 2 years.. no issues anywhere and no lags

 

[lSsantos]

Actually Windows Defender is the W8/8.1 version of Ms Security Essentials (just a different name), it's different from the early versions of Windows Defender. I'm using it as primary antivirus, I was using Norton but it didn't work properly on W8.1.

 

[o0Nighthawk0o]

Same here. When AVG became bloated I switched to Security Essentials. This was years ago and have not had any problems nor any nasties sneak onto my system.

As others said, Windows Defender in 8/8.1 is Security Essentials just a different name.

 

[gedzum]

Defender is OK, but even Microsoft have stated that it's a very basic AV system.....
In the past, I've used defender and also had the Malwarebytes anti-malware software as a back-up; you'd be surprised by what it'll catch that Defender misses!
With those two together, you have a reasonable level of protection

Yeah this what I do at the moment and haven't run into any issues.

 

[FAHMI BASSEM]

No issues with hard using, install programs and games, surfing the web...etc

 

[wpn00b]

Defender is OK, but even Microsoft have stated that it's a very basic AV system.....
In the past, I've used defender and also had the Malwarebytes anti-malware software as a back-up; you'd be surprised by what it'll catch that Defender misses!
With those two together, you have a reasonable level of protection

This is what I use and I also run full scans through the web based scanners or free trial software.

Defender catches everything I've encountered as far as I know. The rest are there for backup.

 

[Martsicky]

Personally I use Eset Smart Security v7 and I'm pleased with it. It contains a firewall too.

 

[timppa_k]

In the address http://www.av-comparatives.org/ is information about several antivirus programmes. The laboratorio is independent. You get also information how heavy the programmes are. Microsoft is not on the list because is not pure antivirus Company.

From other sourse I have heard the protection procent of Microsoft antivirus is about 60%, not very secur!

 

[fiveaces01]

what could possibly be better to protect Windows than a Windows product. If you had a Ford truck would you put a chevy carburetor on it?

 

[Geddeeee]

I'm using Defender and the built in firewall on 8.1. They both work really well. Has picked up all threats. No viruses or nasties have yet got through, and they are both light on system resources. Impressive stuff from MS!!!!

 

[Angry_Mushroom]

I use Kaspersky on my desktop, but I've got defender on my laptop. No issues to be found anywhere.