Windows 7: Windows defender

dad2878 · 07 Jun 2014

What are some thoughts on defender as security software with strict sonic wall settings?

mitchell65 · 07 Jun 2014

As I understand it the Windows Defender that comes with Windows 7 is not an anti virus application. You need good antivirus software, Windows Security Essentials is well recommended here and I would recommend Malwarebytes for malware detection and removal. Both these suggestions are free though I like the increased versatility of the paid version of Malwarebytes. The free version works very well though.
EDIT: Just noticed that you have posted exactly the same thread twice.

dad2878 · 07 Jun 2014

Thanks mitchell65, I posted to one category and then thought it applied better in another category. Does the Windows Security Essentials come thru an optional windows update? Or am I getting it confused with windows defender. B/c I meant to refer to the optional windows update when I posted originally. I agree with what you said about Malwarebytes. Thanks

Layback Bear · 07 Jun 2014

Built in Windows 7 Defender is out dated by a long shot.
When you install Microsoft Security Essential your system will turn off Defender.

You can get M.S.E. from here and of course it's free from Microsoft.

Microsoft Security Essentials - Microsoft Windows

I use Microsoft Security Essential
Malwarebytes Anti Malware Pro
The built in Windows 7 Firewall

DavidE · 07 Jun 2014

Microsoft Security Essentials needs to be downloaded and installed.
Download Microsoft Security Essentials from Official Microsoft Download Center

After it is installed the virus definition updates come in (daily) through Windows Update.
Any program updates will also come in through Windows Update.

When Microsoft Security Essentials is installed it will turn off Windows Defender.

EDIT: LB beat me to it :)