Windows Security (previously Windows Defender) is the center point to managing the threats against your Windows 11 PC. Read on as we detail all you need to know about managing the security of your Windows 11 PC through Windows Security.
What Is Windows Security and Why Do You Need It?
Windows Security is your one-stop security center to protect your Windows 11 device and personal data. Not only is Windows Security quite comprehensive in terms of security features, but it is also shipped with Windows 11 for free and requires no subscription. Windows Security will actively protect your device against all sorts of threats as soon as you log in to Windows 11 for the first time.
In Windows Security, you get a robust real-time antivirus program called Microsoft Defender Antivirus that will keep your data safe from harmful malware. You also get firewall & network protection and even Microsoft Defender SmartScreen to protect you from threats on the internet.
Windows Security also efficiently manages your account settings and device sign-in options quickly. You can even review vital status information about your device to ensure it performs to the best of its ability through Windows Security.
How to Use the Built-In Antivirus on Windows 11
As a Windows 11 user, you get the incredible Microsoft Defender Antivirus for free. Microsoft’s earlier in-house antivirus software (such as Microsoft Security Essentials) was unreliable and not the best at keeping your system safe from malicious threats. However, Microsoft Defender has changed the landscape and is now consistently ranked as one of the best-performing antivirus software by AV-TEST.
Microsoft Defender is very easy to use. It gets enabled by default and will continue protecting you if you don’t have third-party antivirus software installed. To make sure Microsoft Defender is actively protecting your device against malicious threats:
Since Microsoft Defender is built into Windows Security, you will have to launch the Windows Security app via the Start menu. In the Home tab, if you see No action needed underneath the Virus & threat protection icon, then Microsoft Defender is already protecting your device. You can manage the antivirus settings by selecting Virus & threat protection from the sidebar. You can quickly scan your Windows 11 for malware by clicking the Quick scan button. Click on Virus & threat protection settings and then make sure Real-time protection, Cloud-protection, and Automatic sample submission are turned on. You can even set up ransomware protection by setting up Controller folder access.
How to Manage Your Firewall and Network Security on Windows 11
In addition to malware protection, Windows Security also provides a comprehensive firewall. You can set up a firewall in Windows 11 to block specific programs from accessing the internet. To set up a firewall on Windows 11 through the Windows Security app:
Launch the Windows Security app through the Start menu and select Firewall & network protection from the side menu. Click on Allow an app through firewall and then create incoming and outgoing rules for a specific program.
You can read our dedicated article on how to block apps from accessing the internet on Windows 11 for a more detailed guide on setting up the firewall.
Additionally, if you would like to configure your device’s visibility and incoming connections on different networks (Domain, Personal, and Public), you can do so via the Firewall & network protection page in Windows Security.
Windows Security Is All You’ll Need on Windows 11
Windows 11 is quite incredible, and it’s made better thanks to the brilliance of Windows Security. You can easily set up a firewall, manage antivirus preferences, utilize network security features, and even manage family safety straight through Windows Security.
