Windows Defender is a free program, while Microsoft Security Essentials requires a one-time purchase of $39.99 and an annual subscription fee. The final major difference between Windows Defender and Microsoft Security Essentials is the price. Microsoft Security Essentials, on the other hand, is designed to be much more user-friendly, providing clear and simple settings that allow users to configure the level of protection they need.

Windows Defender is designed to run largely in the background, providing basic protection without user intervention. In addition, MSE also offers cloud-based protection to help protect against security threats that might be difficult for traditional anti-virus scanners to detect.Īnother significant difference is the way in which the two programs interact with the user. MSE additionally offers real-time protection, which means it will scan any files that are accessed or downloaded, ensuring that they are free from malicious software. It also scans for rootkits, and blocks malicious websites, phishing schemes, and other potentially dangerous online activities. Microsoft Security Essentials is a full-fledged anti-malware suite, providing protection against viruses, worms, Trojans, and other malicious programs. However, for those needing more robust security, Microsoft Security Essentials provides an enhanced level of protection beyond what is offered by Windows Defender. It provides basic protection, which is sufficient for most home users. It includes protection from malware, spyware, rootkits, as well as protection from phishing schemes, malicious websites and more.

Windows Defender is a “baseline” security system which is built into the Windows operating system and is available to all Windows users. The main difference between the two products is their scope of protection. So, what’s the difference between Windows Defender and Microsoft Security Essentials?

Ms security essentials