What's The Difference Between Microsoft Windows Defender And Microsoft Security Essentials?

Discussion in 'Software' started by Ninefifty, Jan 10, 2018.

  1. Ninefifty

    Ninefifty Private First Class

    I have Defender built into my pc which is Windows 7 but Defender won't work if any other security programs are installed.
    After messing about I finally found how to get Defender working properly.
    It is good in my opinion considering I am using recommended Zemana as portable.
    But...
    I am confused.
    MSE on quick scan took one hour.
    Defender on same system took six minutes on quick scan.

    To help me make up my mind I am willing to take one over the other if one lacks a firewall.

    Which should I keep?
    MSE or Defender?
     
  2. Eldon

    Eldon Major Geek Extraordinaire

    Windows Defender is an antispyware program that shipped with Windows Vista & 7, and can be downloaded for XP.
    If you install an antivirus program that includes antispyware, Defender will be disabled.
    In Windows 8.x & 10 it's an antivirus program.

    Microsoft Security Essentials is an antivirus program for Windows XP, Vista & 7.
    In Windows 8.x & 10 it's replaced by Windows Defender.

    Windows Firewall is a separate program that's not included with either.

    Detailed info over here.
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_Defender
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsoft_Security_Essentials
     
    Ninefifty likes this.
  3. plodr

    plodr MajorGeek Super Extraordinaire Moderator Staff Member

    Windows defender on Windows 7 is not that good. Get a better antivirus program.

    Note: Windows Defender (though it might have the same name is not the same program) on Windows 8/8.1 and 10. This version of Windows Defender is good.
     
  4. Ninefifty

    Ninefifty Private First Class

    I am better off with MSE which provides a better range of protection against threats than Defender which is good in itself.
    Did a quick research influenced by your responses.

    Windows Firewall is installed on my system and active.
     

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