windows defender alongside AV software?

[erik Community SuperMod]

does windows defender offer any benefits to those using standalone AV software such as NOD32?   or, can defender be disabled without losing any protection?

thanks

[Corrine]

Hi, Erik. 

In its current iteration*; that is Windows Defender installed on Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7, Windows Defender is an anti-spyware program.  When active, it provides real-time anti-spyware protection.  With a standalone A/V program, there is no reason not to keep Windows Defender updated and enabled.

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*The Windows 8 Build includes the antivirus features from Microsoft Security Essentials built in to Windows Defender.  This will not preclude users from replacing Windows Defender with their favorite A/V product.  Rather, it will provide "out-of-the-box protection".  It isn't known at this time whether OEMs will include Windows Defender or replace it with other vendor products.

[erik Community SuperMod]

corrine,

thanks for the reply.

to dive a bit deeper, does it make sense to use defender if the AV software already has anti-malware/anti-spyware built into it?   or, is this a "more is better" approach—within reason, of course.   i'm sure 50 V/S/M apps would be overkill.

[Corrine · Accepted solution]

I would hedge my reply on how knowledgeable the person is asking the question.    An experienced, safe surfer with a layered security approach could certainly disable Windows Defender.  Personally, because I have other real-time software installed, I keep Windows Defender updated but it is not active. 

[erik Community SuperMod]

believe it or not, i haven't had a virus since circa 1998~99 after i started using commercial AV software.   i can't say the same for family members though.

thanks for the insight.   it's definitely appreciated.

[Corrine]

I'm one up on you, Erik.  I've never had an infection on any of my computers (Knock on wood) using both free and licensed A/V software.

[goretsky Community Moderator]

Hello,

As Corrine pointed out, under current versions of Microsoft Windows, Windows Defender's role is fairly specific, and the types of hooks it places into a system are fairly minimal.  I cannot recall Windows Defender conflicting with another security program and, in the case of ESET NOD32 Antivirus, both programs work fine together without any problems.

Regards,

Aryeh Goretsky