Windows Defender Update Fail

[steveseven]

When I update my computer or when it does it automatically, the Definition Update for Windows Defender always comes back as failed. why is that? and do i need it if i have AVG and ZoneAlarm?

 

[MacGyvr]

I would get rid of both AVG and ZoneAlarm, and install Microsoft Security Essentials. It will disable Windows Defender when you install it. It does a great job of anti-virus and anti-spyware, and you don't need a separate firewall if the Windows one is turned on.

 

[JMH]

When I update my computer or when it does it automatically, the Definition Update for Windows Defender always comes back as failed. why is that? and do i need it if i have AVG and ZoneAlarm?

steveseven,
It is not recommended to have two Anti Virus programs running on your computer at the same time. I suggest that you remove one immediately.
Defender's value is questionable. I don't use it.
Alternatively remove both Anti Virus programs & follow Macgyvr's advice.

 

[steveseven]

I dont believe AVG and ZoneAlarm are both Anti-Virus. I know the that if you have two anti-virus programs they will "fight" each other, I think everyone knows that.
And Defender still wont update automatically or manually. It's not that I want to use it, I just want to know why its not upgrading

 

[Flavius]

There are many times many problems with Zone Alarm under Vista/Win 7.First try @MacGyvr suggestion (especially I strong recommend uninstall Zone Alarm) and try again.You can also try update Windows Defender manually How to manually download the latest definition updates for Windows Defender

Read also this MS advise:How to troubleshoot definition update issues for Windows Defender

 

[JMH]

When I update my computer or when it does it automatically, the Definition Update for Windows Defender always comes back as failed. why is that? and do i need it if i have AVG and ZoneAlarm?

I dont believe AVG and ZoneAlarm are both Anti-Virus. I know the that if you have two anti-virus programs they will "fight" each other, I think everyone knows that.
And Defender still wont update automatically or manually. It's not that I want to use it, I just want to know why its not upgrading

It would be helpful to be specific in your posts re Zone Alarm & AVG.

Are you using Zone Alarm Anti Virus, Internet Security, Extreme Security or the free firewall?

Re AVG. Which do you have? AVG Internet Security, Anti Virus & Firewall, Anti Virus or the free version.

Re your Defender problem. Anti Virus Progs are known to turn Defender off.
When turned off you won't get updates.

 

[steveseven]

i have the free versions of AVG and Zone Alarm. Windows defender is off, is it worth turning on just to update it if i dont use it?

 

[JMH]

steveseven,
If you don't use Defender don't worry about updating it.
Just forget it. I have.

[Off topic - I would suggest that you think about adding to your security.
If you are interested, you could start a new thread in "System Security."
Make sure that you list exactly what you are currently using eg router /firewall etc .]

 

[steveseven]

adding what to my security?

 

[JMH]

There are other layers of security available to complement your existing set up, if you are interested.

 

[steveseven]

such as?

 

[JMH]

As stated earlier, these questions are best discussed in the appropriate section of the forum.
If your original question re Defender Update has been answered, shall we close this thread?
Please advise.

 

[steveseven]

yes, the original question was answered, its just annoying to see that my overall update fails every time because of the windows defender. would i need to turn off my fire wall to get the upgrade?

 

[JMH]

yes, the original question was answered, its just annoying to see that my overall update fails every time because of the windows defender. would i need to turn off my fire wall to get the upgrade?

Thank you for letting is know.
Re your further question, refer the post by Flavius earlier in this thread.