For many years, I’ve believed that the majority of people do not require third-party antivirus software and have happily shared this view with others.
After all, Microsoft’s built-in Windows Security suite (known as Windows Defender or Microsoft Defender) offers free virus protection for your computer, and I’ve been using it for a long time. The last time I remember experiencing virus issues on my PC was more than ten years ago.
However, when I sought validation for this long-held belief, I quickly encountered a different perspective, filled with experts who advocate that everyone should invest in antivirus software. This guidance comes not only from the companies that market antivirus products but also from trustworthy websites that review antivirus software.
Additionally, practically every laptop I’ve evaluated for PCWorld has included some form of antivirus trialware, provided by companies like McAfee and Norton. These companies pay computer manufacturers for placement, which wouldn’t make sense if no one purchased the products, would it?
At this point, I’ve received enough inquiries from readers—and family members—that I decided to investigate further. What I’ve discovered is that my original beliefs were largely accurate: Most individuals can indeed manage without additional antivirus software. Yet, that doesn’t imply that everyone should forgo it or that you shouldn’t take further measures to stay protected.
Arguments against supplementary antivirus software are straightforward: Windows Security competes with other programs in detecting viruses. While this wasn’t always true, Microsoft’s detection capabilities have significantly improved in recent years, so much so that the independent AV-TEST Institute consistently rates it a perfect 6 out of 6 in protection, usability, and performance, surpassing industry averages.
Perhaps even more significantly, security is no longer centralized, so relying solely on a single virus scanner is inadequate. Some instances include:
- Major web browsers now have the capability to identify and block harmful websites through tools such as Google Safe Browsing.
- These browsers might also alert you if you’re about to download a program that is not recognized.
- Leading email providers like Gmail and Yahoo scan attachments for viruses before you can download them.
- These same email providers’ spam filters effectively prevent malicious emails from reaching your inbox while warning you about potential phishing attempts.
- The SmartScreen filter included with Windows will notify you if you’re trying to install unrecognized software.
- Ultimately, antivirus software serves merely as an additional layer of defense. For a lot of users, Microsoft’s built-in protections should be adequate.
Why, then, do some people still suggest using Malwarebytes as an extra layer of defense? Primarily because it’s beneficial to have a different perspective on your computer.
For example, last year, I conducted a scan with Malwarebytes and discovered a collection of potentially unwanted programs associated with my Chrome installation. Although my Chrome seemed to function normally—without any suspicious toolbars or search redirects visible to me—this prompted me to delete my sync data from Chrome, reset its settings, and carry out a fresh installation of Chrome. (I suspect it was due to a problematic browser extension.)
However, there are drawbacks to Malwarebytes as well. If installation is not conducted carefully, it will automatically add its own extension to all your browsers, and the free version frequently prompts you to upgrade. Moreover, unless you disable its real-time protections (available only as a 14-day trial for free users), these protections will take precedence over Microsoft’s own virus scanner.
I may continue to occasionally install Malwarebytes to gain a second opinion on my computer’s condition, but for now, I’m choosing to keep it off my PC as well.
To clarify, third-party antivirus software isn’t a scam devoid of real value. While many individuals can manage without paying for antivirus software, there are still valid reasons to contemplate doing so:
- If you require additional security assistance: Certain antivirus programs provide security features beyond traditional virus scanning. For instance, Avast can track webcam usage and allow you to block untrusted applications from accessing your video, and it can alert you if any of your online passwords are involved in a data breach. (Numerous premium antivirus suites now include identity protection features.)
- If you want to bundle services: Apart from enhanced security features, some antivirus programs provide tools that you would otherwise need to purchase separately.
- Norton 360 Deluxe, for example, includes its own password manager and cloud storage service. Avast One comes with an integrated VPN and a temporary file cleaner.
- If you seek diverse types of protection: Some third-party tools offer protective measures that aren’t available in Windows. AVG’s “Behavior Shield,” for instance, can identify patterns of malicious behavior even if it hasn’t spotted a virus, while Avast One features ransomware protection that stops applications from encrypting your files without authorization. (Windows offers this too, but not by default.)
All these additional features can, however, slow down your computer, negatively impacting performance and getting in your way, and they might not even be the most effective tools available. I would prefer utilizing a dedicated password manager rather than one included with antivirus software, and if I needed a VPN, I would want to select my provider. That being said, an all-in-one solution is quite attractive for those who prefer not to manage a collection of programs, and contemporary antivirus suites provide just that.
While extra antivirus software was crucial in the early days of personal computing, it has now become just one possible tool in a broader security toolkit, which should also consist of strong passwords, two-factor authentication, reliable data backups, and a sensible approach. On this point, experts seem to completely agree.
Overview of Windows Security
Windows has consistently incorporated security measures to protect you from hackers, cybercriminals, and malware. These security measures have significantly improved over the last decade, reaching their peak in Windows 11.
Although the additional requirements for installing the latest version of Windows might be bothersome if you are using outdated (ineligible) hardware, the implementation of secure boot and other protective features contributes to making Windows 11 the most secure version of Windows to date.
In fact, Windows 11 comes with several built-in protective measures by default, grouped under the name Windows Security. Collectively, these features make Windows 11 secure enough that the average user may not require third-party antivirus software. Mostly.
Microsoft Defender Guards
Windows 11 also includes specific “Guards” as part of Microsoft Defender that boost its anti-malware defenses.
Microsoft Defender Application Guard functions across various Microsoft applications, including Edge and the Microsoft Office suite. It identifies potentially harmful websites and/or files, and instead of opening them directly on Windows, it does so in a sandbox that prevents potentially malicious code from affecting your system.
Microsoft Defender Exploit Guard assists in removing common entry points for malware attacks. For instance, it can stop all executable files from running in an email client or webmail service, or it can block applications from launching after clicking on links in Office documents.
Additionally, Microsoft Defender Credential Guard employs virtualization technology to segregate sensitive information (such as password hashes) so that only authorized system software has access.
These different Microsoft Defender Guards are activated by default but also have more options and protective measures available for enterprise users, providing greater control over their operation and the extent to which they restrict certain Windows functions.
When is additional protection beyond Windows Security necessary?
Returning to the initial question: Are the built-in antivirus and security features of Windows 11 sufficient for everyday users?
In most cases, yes. The actual security features effectively accomplish their intended goals. When it comes to detecting malware and alerting you to suspicious activities, Windows 11 performs well, and you likely don’t need a standalone antivirus solution.
Nonetheless, Windows Security still places the responsibility for safety on you. Certain features must be appropriately configured in advance, and the overall protection provided by Windows Security is fundamental. You still need to be smart, cautious, and vigilant by:
- Avoiding dubious websites
- Not downloading unsolicited files
- Refraining from clicking links in emails or social media messages
- If you believe you can keep yourself secure, and are comfortable taking on the responsibility for maintaining solid cybersecurity practices, then Windows Security should suffice.
However, if you often make poor decisions, if you worry about becoming a victim of malware or cybercriminals, or if you require additional features not included in Windows Security, then consider investing in a paid antivirus suite.
The best paid antivirus solutions provide more thorough protections against malware and phishing, in addition to features like VPNs, password managers, identity protection, parental controls, defenses against remote access, and more. Some top-tier services may even monitor your bank accounts and offer insurance against losses.
If you’ve concluded that Windows Security is adequate, be sure to adjust these settings to optimize its performance and security.