Is Windows Defender available for Windows 8?

Microsoft® Windows® Defender is bundled with the Windows® 8 and 8.1 operating systems, but many computers have a trial or full version of other third-party anti virus protection program installed, which disables Windows Defender.

How do I turn on Windows Defender antivirus in Windows 8?

Open the Control panel and navigate to Control Panel\System and Security\Action Center. In the right pane you will see the message that Windows Defender is turned off. Click the ‘Turn on now’ button to enable Windows Defender again.

How do I turn Windows Defender on?

Turn Microsoft Defender Antivirus real-time protection on or off

  1. Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security and then Virus & threat protection > Manage settings.
  2. Switch the Real-time protection setting to Off and choose Yes to verify.

Why has Windows Defender been turned off?

If Windows Defender is turned off, this may be because you have another antivirus app installed on your machine (check Control Panel, System and Security, Security and Maintenance to make sure). You should turn off and uninstall this app before running Windows Defender to avoid any software clashes.

Why can’t I find Windows Defender?

You need to open the Control Panel (but not the Settings app), and head to System and Security > Security and Maintenance. Here, underneath the same heading (Spyware and unwanted software protection’), you will be able to choose Windows Defender.

Does Windows 8.1 have antivirus built in?

If your computer is running Windows 8, you already have antivirus software. Windows 8 includes Windows Defender, which helps protect you from viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.

How do I know if Windows Defender is installed?

Use the Windows Security app to check status of Microsoft Defender Antivirus. On your Windows device, select the Start menu, and begin typing Security . Then open the Windows Security app in the results. Select Virus & threat protection.