2

Possible Duplicate:
Does Windows 8 require any sort of Virus protection?

I haven't got my head completely around Windows Defender for Windows 8. What is it? I have Avast! but it seems like they are warning for the same things. Are the programs like each other? What are the benefits of each programs?

Lastly, do I need Avast! in Windows 8? Or can I rely on Windows Defender alone?

Community
  • 1
Alfred Larsson
  • 719

2 Answers2

5

Windows Defender in Windows 8 is essentially an improved version of Microsoft Security Essentials. It provides both anti-virus and anti-spyware capabilities and works alongside the Windows Firewall to protect your computer. Granted, you might want Avast if you are familiar with its AV capabilities and prefer its features to those of Windows Defender, but out of the box; Windows 8 is secure without the need for extra security software.

Lusitanian
  • 679
2

As a note, you should never install more than one antivirus; having more than one is likely to make your system slow, unstable, and will likely cause false positives.

Therefore, unless there is some spefici aspect of Windows Defender (which has received good reviews, in general) you dislike, I'd recommend sticking with it and not installing avast.

If you do choose Avast, remember to disable Windows Defender first!

houbysoft
  • 4,444