Microsoft's latest security tool is the uninspiringly named Microsoft Defender. Serving as a one-stop-shop security dashboard, this is a cross-platform security solution that is currently available for Windows 10 and 11, iOS and Android; there will also be a macOS version available at some point in the future.
The app is currently available as a preview, and there are some things to note about it while it is in this state. Not only is the macOS version of the app not yet ready, but the preview is only open to users in the US for the time being. Of course, when the utility fully launches, it will be available globally, but it is not clear if or when the preview build will be available outside of the US.
Additionally, this is an app that Microsoft plans to charge for. The company is yet to give nay indication of pricing, but when the preview period is up, you will need to pay a subscription fee to continue using it. This means that the preview build is not only a good way to try out the software before its official launch, it's also a means of deciding whether you will be willing to pay for it when the time comes.
So what can you expect from Microsoft Defender? It is a centralized hub for controlling and monitoring the security status of multiple devices. It means that you can use your phone to keep an eye on your computer and vice versa, and the app provides you with recommendations about things you can do to boost your security.
The dashboard lets you know information such as details of the last time a particular device was scanned for security issues. It also offer protection against hackers and malware, helping to keep your data safe and out of the wrong hands.
The app will also let you know about potentially unsafe apps installed on your mobile device, which is handy if you have installed anything from outside officially stores.
Please note that the Preview is only available for US users.
Verdict:
While this is a utility that is currently in preview, it is already showing signs of promise. The requirement for a Microsoft account will be off-putting to some people – particularly to anyone who isn't using the software on Windows – but it should not be enough to stop anyone from using it. There is no denying that Microsoft Defender is accessible and useful, but just how appealing it is will really depend on the pricing that is applied when the preview period is over.
Your Comments & Opinion
The latest stable Chrome Portable includes a number of under-the-hood improvements
Keep your passwords – and more – safe in this secure vault
A cross-platform password manager that secures you login credentials and more
A secure web browser based on a Mozilla core
Analyze your PC's open network connections
Enhance your online life with this varied suite of free tools
Quickly scan your computer for possible infection with this free portable tool from Microsoft
Quickly scan your computer for possible infection with this free portable tool from Microsoft
Detect and remove keyloggers
LastPass remembers your online passwords so you don't have to
LastPass remembers your online passwords so you don't have to