Like every new Windows release, Windows 8 is more secure than the operating systems that came before it. That's due in large part to three major enhancements: An increased emphasis on UEFI Secure Boot optimizations, the extension of the SmartScreen Filter across the operating system, and the default inclusion of a more robust version of Windows Defender, which now protects against all kinds of malware—not just spyware.
Windows Defender for Windows 8.1, Windows RT 8.1, and Windows 10 provides built-in protection against malware. You can't use Microsoft Security Essentials, but you don't need to—Windows Defender is already included and ready to go. You can turn on Windows Defender in Windows 8.1 by clicking on the Turn on now button on the right side of Virus protection (Important). Click on Turn on now as shown below to turn on Windows Defender in Windows 8.1. After Windows Defender is turned on, you will see the screen as shown below.
Windows Defender's increased scope doesn't sit well with computer manufacturers, however. OEMs make beaucoup bucks by installing those trial versions of McAfee, Norton and other security suites you'll find bundled on boxed PCs. Windows Defender's default installation threatens that gravy train.
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- The below steps are applicable for Windows 8 or 8.1 which has the older version (interface) of Windows Defender. 1) Go to search ( in Windows charm bar) and type defender and click on it. 2) Once Windows defender is opened, I’m sure it will be green because it is running currently.
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Microsoft tossed its partners a bone by allowing OEMs to deactivate Windows Defender in order to ship boxed PCs with alternative security solutions installed. That's all well and good from a 'variety is the spice of life' perspective, but one side-effect that isn't so hot is what happens when you fail to register that third-party security software: Windows 8 doesn't automatically reactivate Windows Defender by default. In other words, your pretty new prepackaged PC is wide open and vulnerable to all the nasties of the 'Net.
Fortunately, activating Windows Defender is a snap. Here's how to do it.
Activate Windows Defender in Windows 8
First, head to the modern-style Start screen and type 'Windows Defender' to have Windows search for the program, then click on the Windows Defender icon when it appears in the results. A Windows Defender window will appear on the classic desktop. If Microsoft's security software is disabled, you'll seen a lot of scary red tones alongside an 'At risk' warning and an image of a computer screen with a big X on it. Subtle, eh?
Next, click on the Settings tab at the top of the window. Make sure 'Real-time protection' is selected in the left pane, then check the box next to 'Turn on real-time protection (recommended).' Finally, click Save Changes at the bottom of the Window.
Install Windows Defender On Windows 8.1
You'll know it worked when the terrifying red 'At risk' bar at the top of the Windows turns a much more soothing shade of green and switches to 'PC Status: Protected.'
Check for leaks
You're not quite done yet. Now it's time to make sure your PC is actually malware-free! Click the Update tab, then click on the big Update button in the middle of the Window to download the latest malware definitions Microsoft has on file.
Next, open the Home tab and select the 'Full' radio button in the Scan Options list. All you have to do now is click Scan Now, then sit back and wait while Windows Defender checks the nooks and crannies of your PC for any hidden baddies. Grab a cup of coffee; it may take some time. While you're waiting, we recommend checking out your Windows 8 antivirus options.
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Windows Defender For Windows 8.1 Install
It is always recommended that you install antivirus software on your PC to protect yourself from Internet threats. With that said, though, Microsoft does build a few defensive tools into the Windows operating system. If you are using Windows 8 or 8.1, use the steps below to enable Windows Defender.
Step 1
To start, you will have to find the Defender app on your system. To do this, use the key combination of the Windows Key and Q. This combo will launch the search function on your system. Type “defender” into the resulting search bar.
If you are using a tablet, you can find the search menu by swiping in from the right-hand side of the screen.
Step 2
When Windows Defender shows up as a result for your search, tap or click on it to launch the program. If the program isn’t turned on, you will be greeted by a dialogue box telling you so. If the program is turned on, it will open and you will be able to edit the security settings.
Step 3
If Defender is off, go back to the search function from step 1 and type in “action.” Select Action Center from the results. A new menu will open where you can see your security settings, including options for spyware and virus protection. Both will tell you that Defender is turned off, and both will also feature a button that says “Turn on now.” Click one of them to enable Defender.
Recap
Once Defender is enabled, you will be able to open the program, view your security settings, and update the software to make sure the antivirus definitions are up to date!
Step 1
To start, you will have to find the Defender app on your system. To do this, use the key combination of the Windows Key and Q. This combo will launch the search function on your system. Type “defender” into the resulting search bar.
If you are using a tablet, you can find the search menu by swiping in from the right-hand side of the screen.
Step 2
When Windows Defender shows up as a result for your search, tap or click on it to launch the program. If the program isn’t turned on, you will be greeted by a dialogue box telling you so. If the program is turned on, it will open and you will be able to edit the security settings.
Step 3
If Defender is off, go back to the search function from step 1 and type in “action.” Select Action Center from the results. A new menu will open where you can see your security settings, including options for spyware and virus protection. Both will tell you that Defender is turned off, and both will also feature a button that says “Turn on now.” Click one of them to enable Defender.
Recap
Once Defender is enabled, you will be able to open the program, view your security settings, and update the software to make sure the antivirus definitions are up to date!