Virtually every Windows user wonders at one point or another: Do I need a third-party antivirus app in addition to Windows 11’s built-in Microsoft Defender? Do I need any antivirus protection at all?
In a blog post from earlier this month, Microsoft goes on the record and claims that Microsoft Defender is enough for most users and no additional antivirus software is needed for Windows 11.
Unsurprisingly, Microsoft states that Windows 11 is “the most secure Windows yet,” and part of that is owing to the “built‑in antivirus software that’s active by default, deeply integrated into the OS, and updated continuously.” Namely, Microsoft Defender.
According to the blog post, Defender offers sufficient protection for most users: “For many Windows 11 users, Microsoft Defender Antivirus covers everyday risk without requiring additional software. The choice to add third‑party antivirus depends on how you use your PC and which features you value.”
Long story short, Defender is enough if you keep the default guards enabled, keep it updated, and practice thoughtfulness when downloading anything off the internet. Microsoft Defender Antivirus and SmartScreen will protect you against malicious files and phishing sites.
But Microsoft also concedes that Defender may not be enough for certain power users, in which case third-party antivirus is still a good idea. Notably, extra security software may be needed if you “manage multiple devices, share devices with family members, or want services like identity monitoring or parental controls.” Specialized security software may also be needed in corporate environments where centralized management and enhanced threat monitoring are paramount for protecting sensitive data.
If you’re going to install third-party antivirus, make sure you weigh the pros and cons. The extra background processes will put additional load on your RAM and CPU, and some security suites can cause conflicts with Microsoft Defender. Running multiple real-time scanners at once can also lead to unpredictable behavior. Ideally, you should limit yourself to a single real-time antivirus program.
Further reading: All the ways Microsoft Defender protects your PC
