Windows Defender is a free program that protects your computer against pop-ups, slow performance and security threats caused by spyware and other potentially unwanted software. Note: Windows Defender no longer supports Windows 2000 as mainstream support (for Windows 2000) ended in June 2005. This new version includes enhanced features such as:
- A redesigned and simplified user interface: The Windows Defender UI has been redesigned to make common tasks easier to accomplish with a warning system that adapts alert levels according to the severity of a threat so that it is less intrusive overall, but still ensures the user does not miss the most urgent alerts.
- Improved detection and removal: Using a new engine, Windows Defender is able to detect and remove more threats posed by spyware and other potentially unwanted software. Real Time Protection has also been enhanced to better monitor key points in the operating system for changes.
- Support for 64-bit platforms and accessibility: Windows Defender supports accessibility and 64-bit platforms.
- WGA enforcement - According to Microsoft, there are significant risks to running non-genuine Windows. Microsoft only permits genuine Windows customers to receive product downloads, Windows updates and special offers. Windows Defender will validate that your copy of Windows is genuine before installation. Windows Defender will also only remove Severe threats for machines that are not genuine. Low, Medium and High threats will be detected, but not removed unless your copy of Windows is genuine.
- Free Limited Support: As a part Microsoft's commitment to your security, they now offer two free support incidents relating to Windows Defender on Windows XP or Windows Server 2003.
System Requirements
- Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or later
- Pentium 233 MHz or higher processor (Pentium III recommended) with at least 64 MB of RAM (128 MB RAM recommended)
- Windows XP Service Pack 2 or later, or Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 or later
- At least 20 MB of available hard disk space
More information can be found by visiting the Microsoft Windows Defender Web site.
Downloads:
If you need help fighting Spyware, we have a section devoted to computer security, viruses and Spyware on our WindowsBBS.com Support forum.
