Microsoft will automatically install Defender for Microsoft 365 subscribers

Microsoft will automatically install the Defender antivirus software via an update at the end of February on Windows 10 and 11 devices with a 365 Family and Personal subscription. The application is also added to the Microsoft 365 installer.

Until now, installing Microsoft Defender was optional, but like other 365 apps, such as Word and Excel, it is now automatically installed for non-business users with a subscription. That writes Microsoft on its support site, such as Neowin discovered. When non-subscribers decide to bring in 365 Apps through the installer, Defender will also be installed along with the other apps. Microsoft reports that all this must be done “by the end of February”. Some users report on Twitter that the tool is already on their computer. Incidentally, users must first log in to the application before the antivirus software becomes active.

Microsoft Defender is a different product than Windows security, which is built into every Windows PC by default. The latter includes Microsoft Defender Antivirus, which detects and removes malware. The standalone Microsoft Defender is only available with a 365 subscription. In addition to malware protection, this tool also includes “web protection, real-time security alerts and security tips”, writes Microsoft. In addition, unlike Windows security, it is also usable on smartphones and Macs. It also contains an exclusive feature which monitors online identity fraud, although it is currently only available to 365 subscribers in the US.

Microsoft Defender