Windows 10 Features and Options - Microsoft Defender

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Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus and anti-malware solution included with Windows 10. Here are some of the key features of Windows Defender:

Real-time Protection: Windows Defender provides real-time protection against malware and other threats by scanning files and processes as they are accessed.

Cloud-Based Protection: Windows Defender uses Microsoft's cloud-based protection service to help identify and block new and emerging threats.

Firewall and Network Protection: Windows Defender includes a firewall that monitors network traffic and helps block malicious activity.

Browser Protection: Windows Defender offers browser protection through Microsoft Edge, blocking malicious websites and downloads.

Parental Controls: Windows Defender includes parental controls that allow parents to monitor and control their children's online activities.

Device Performance and Health: Windows Defender includes a device performance and health feature that provides system maintenance and health reports, as well as a feature to help optimize system performance.

Offline Scanning: Windows Defender can scan your system for malware even if it is not connected to the internet.

Exploit Protection: Windows Defender provides exploit protection that helps protect against exploits and zero-day attacks.

Overall, Windows Defender is a comprehensive security solution that provides protection against a wide range of threats, while also offering additional features such as device performance and health monitoring, parental controls, and offline scanning. While some users may prefer to use third-party antivirus software, Windows Defender is a solid choice for those who want a reliable and built-in security solution.

Detailed steps on how to configure the above on Windows Defender:
steps to configure some of the key features of Windows Defender:

Real-time Protection: Real-time protection is enabled by default in Windows Defender, but you can configure its settings by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection. Here, you can turn on or off real-time protection, exclude files, folders or processes from scanning, and enable or disable Cloud-delivered protection and Automatic sample submission.

Firewall and Network Protection: To configure the firewall, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Firewall & network protection. Here, you can turn the firewall on or off, block or allow apps through the firewall, and configure inbound and outbound rules for specific apps.

Browser Protection: Browser protection is enabled by default in Windows Defender when you use Microsoft Edge. To configure browser protection settings, open Microsoft Edge, go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services, and turn on or off the "Block potentially unwanted apps" option.

Parental Controls: To configure parental controls, go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users. Here, you can add a family member, set screen time limits, control app and game limits, and manage web browsing and search settings for your child's account.

Device Performance and Health: To configure device performance and health settings, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Device performance & health. Here, you can run a health check on your device, view system health reports, and configure automatic maintenance settings.

Offline Scanning: Offline scanning can be performed by creating a Windows Defender Offline bootable media, such as a USB drive, and using it to boot your computer. You can create a Windows Defender Offline media by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options > Windows Defender Offline.

Exploit Protection: Exploit protection is enabled by default in Windows Defender, but you can configure its settings by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > App & browser control > Exploit protection. Here, you can configure system-wide settings and create custom rules to protect individual apps.

Note that the steps to configure these settings may vary slightly depending on the version of Windows 10 you are using.