skip to main content

Usefulness of Windows Defender

16 years ago

I've had Windows Defender for a number of years. I've never seen it indicate that it has caught or stopped a bug. It always says "your computer is running normally."

Either its failing to prevent malware, or it is the nature of the program to not tell you when it does (which seems odd).

Recently, I installed Microsoft Security Essentials. I read here that this program included the benefits of Windows Defender and would automatically delete Windows Defender when it was installed.

Now I have them both. MSE once caught two bugs and says they are removed in the history tally box. Below the box, it says do not remove them. Confusing!?

Any thoughts?

RB

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (6)

zep516
16 years ago
If Microsoft Security Essentials and Windows Defender are both running, your system may experience performance degradation and other problems caused by the conflict of two services providing real time protection simultaneously.
Microsoft Security Essentials disables Defender on install for that reason as it will handle ,Virus, Trojans ect. as well as spyware that Defender was assigned to.

If it say's do not remove the files then don't there isolated from the computer and can't do any harm.
Bob_B
Original Author
16 years ago
As I said, the installation of Microsoft Security Essentials did NOT remove Windows Defender, as I expected it to do.

If I should now remove Windows Defender, what's the best way -- "add/remove" or some special tool?

RB
Related Discussions
Windows Defender antivirus or malware
Q
Comments (9)
"Unless I totally misunderstood my readings, AVs and malware detection applications are niche services. " I think this depends on the particular software, the intended message and context of the conversation. Just as an example (not intended as proselytizing), I use what I think of as Norton Anti Virus. But it's really the Norton Internet Security system. It's a suite of many, many programs and routines that handle a large number of functions. Website reputation, antivirus-malware-spyware-phishing blocking and removal, firewall, temp file cleanup, safety of files downloaded from websites or emails, email scanning, and on and on. Other than the occasional message that pops up, it's invisible. AND, it schedules scans on the fly for only when the PC is not in use. It never interrupts or delays other activity. I never touch it, never schedule anything, and almost never see anything. I think all the best in class products (there are maybe 4 or 5 best choices) are similar to what I described, comprehensive "systems". They're well worth the modest annual cost.
...See More
Windows Defender
Q
Comments (5)
I cannot find much about this error except that it does appear to be some update issue, at this time I would suggest visiting the windows update page and see if there is possible up date for Defender that's all I can offer for now and will look around to see what else or if anyone has had the problem and a solution to it. zep
...See More
Windows Defender
Q
Comments (2)
Avast should automatically disable windows defender when you install it. And should automatically re-enable it when you uninstall Avast, but that doesn't always work.. sometimes, and its a good idea.. that you visit avast support to see if they have a special uninstall cleanup tool.
...See More
win10 and windows defender
Q
Comments (8)
I have never had a virus until I started prepping for W10. When I start downloading my software, I got something that locked up my toolbar, safesearch I think and wajam. I did a system restore, then a friend told me it was still in restore and told me how to get rid of it there. Later I picked up a virus with no name, it just had gen in the name with other stuff. It froze my Avast and my PC. I waited a few minutes and I was able to use IE. Downloaded Adware cleaner and that took care of the second one.
...See More
zep516
16 years ago
Microsoft Security Essentials disables Defender. It does not remove it. You can't remove it as far I know.
mikie_gw
16 years ago
If XP you can remove it from add/remove.
If I remember right, its stock equiptment with Vista. So leave it alone.

Security Essentials uses the same 'engine' and defs too I believe they told us. With vista you can start it while Security Essentials is running if you like to use the other features... but you wont be able to turn it off until you reboot.. and may find you get updated twice as often.
Bob_B
Original Author
16 years ago
Windows Defender is NOT disabled. It is still on my computer. It still does scans. I have XP.

zep:
Again, I don't think WD is disabled.

Mikie:
I could not understand your post.

RB
zep516
16 years ago
For windows XP only, c
How to Uninstall Windows Defender Manually. See link..

**cannot uninstall it in Vista you can only disable it.

Here is a link that might be useful: Uninstall Windows Defender

Related Stories

WINDOWS The Best Uses for a Bay Window

By Liz Miller Interiors

See how to furnish a bay window or merely enjoy the view more, in both casual and formal settings

WINDOWS Transom Windows: Why Use Them — and Where?

See How a Little Extra Glass Lets in Light, Air and Style

DECORATING GUIDES DIY: How to Use Tapes and Trims to Embellish Your Decor

By Robin Braithwaite

Trim soft furnishings and window coverings with decorative edgings to add definition and style

MORE ROOMS Use Draperies to Warm Up Your Rooms for Winter

By Shawn Gauthier

Window coverings in rich colors and textures turn your space into a cozy retreat for fall and winter

LIGHTING 10 Ways to Make Good Use of Winter's Light

By Shawn Gauthier

Take advantage of the sun we still have with light curtains, window seating and heat-capturing accents

LANDSCAPE DESIGN 5 Great Garden Uses for Granite Millstones

By Paintbox Garden

Give your yard character and history with a salvaged circular stone used as a patio, seat, fountain or focal point

BEDROOMS 14 Ways to Make Better Use of Bedroom Corners

By Becky Harris

These spots were made for nestling, storing, displaying and enjoying. Are you making the most of them?

DECORATING GUIDES Use Trim to Modernize a Traditional Home — or Vice Versa

By Eco+Historical, Inc.

Bridge the gap between old and new styles with subtle variations in trim style and color

HOME TECH Would You Use Virtual Reality to Renovate Your Home?

By Michael Cannell

Architecture can be confusing, but immersion in a computer-generated 3D world soon may help

DECORATING GUIDES How to Use Mirrors for More Light and Style

By Laura Gaskill

A well-placed mirror gives a room sparkle, surprise and a bright, open feeling. Here are 15 clever ideas to try in your own house

Sponsored

22 Reviews

Window, Doors, Roofing & Siding Experts in Loudoun County, Virginia

More Discussions

Good free antivirus?

8

Windows 11 Update, How Long of a Wait?

5

PC screen goes black for 2-3 seconds....

0