Microsoft Is Forcing Everyone to Use ‘Defender’

There are plenty of excellent security tools out there to keep you safe while using your devices. However, the best security tools work best when most users (if not all) install them. Microsoft seems to be taking the extreme option here, opting to force all of its Microsoft 365 users to adopt it Microsoft Defender security app.

According to Bleeping Computer, Microsoft is now installing “Microsoft Defender for Individuals whenever a user installs or updates Microsoft 365 applications. For new users, that means Microsoft Defender will be a part of the entire M365 package.

“Starting in late February of 2023, the Microsoft Defender app will be included in the Microsoft 365 installer. That means that when you install the Microsoft 365 apps on your Windows device, the Microsoft Defender app will automatically be installed for you along with the other apps.”

“If you have an active Microsoft 365 subscription and have already installed the Microsoft 365 apps, then the Microsoft Defender app will be automatically installed for you with the next update.”

Defender for Individuals is not a system utility, like Defender Antivirus. Rather, it is now a full Microsoft 365 app, working to help keep tabs on the security of programs across Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. It issues safety alerts, warnings concerning security changes, and recommendations on securing data and devices.

There is a malware protection feature, but it is currently on available on Windows, Mac, and Android, not iOS. However, there is web protection on iOS and Android, while on Windows, web protection is built into the OS.

Cover photo by Microsoft