Windows security is typically integrated into every device that runs Microsoft’s operating system. It protects your files and devices from hacker and malware attacks through different methods. This includes basic anti-virus protection and a fire wall and other tools to prevent data loss. Windows Security or the small straight from the source shield icon on the taskbar’s notification area allows you to access and control the settings.

Microsoft’s own antivirus program, Microsoft Defender Antivirus, is included with Windows. In early versions of the software, it was referred to as Windows Defender Security Center. It provides basic chip-to-cloud protection and is free. It also integrates with other security products and is able of detecting threats that other security solutions do not.

One of the primary features is the reputation-based security, which uses a massive online database to analyze websites and apps for reputation scores. If a website or application is rated low, it’s not allowed to run on the device. It was effective in blocking phishing sites and harmful programs in our tests. However it didn’t block as many as other third-party competitors.

Other features include firewall and network protection, which is a way of monitoring the network you are using and the programs you use to determine their security. Device security is another feature that allows advanced hardware features, such as core isolation. This feature is able to protect your device against specific types of attacks. However, you’ll need to use an operating system that supports it to benefit from.