- By Alex David
- Sat, 17 May 2025 11:57 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Up until a few years ago, nearly all users of Windows would install an antivirus program immediately after setting up a new PC. For some, this will no longer be the case come 2025. Windows 11 offers enhanced built-in security. features, ensuring reasonable protection for those who keep their systems up-to-date and practice safe browsing.
Windows Security: A Fully Equipped Protection Suite
Windows Security is far from the minimalistic tool it used to be. Fully integrated into the Operating System, Windows Security offers up-to-standard safety as all-in-one protection from system breaches. Here’s what has been added:
Virus & Threat Protection: Real-time and behaviour-based malware detection with manual scan options.
Firewall & Network Protection: Blocks unauthorised traffic and manages app permissions.
App & Browser Control: Uses Microsoft Defender SmartScreen to warn you about malicious sites and downloads.
Device Security: Enforces hardware-level protections like Secure Boot and core isolation.
Account Protection: Monitors sign-in activity and supports advanced authentication methods.
Device Performance & Health: Offers system health reports and maintenance suggestions.
AV-TEST Performance:
According to the AV-TEST results from January and February 2025, Microsoft Defender Antivirus scored a perfect 6.0/6.0 in protection, performance, and usability. It effectively stops advanced malware, phishing attempts, and web-based attacks—all while consuming minimal system resources.
For example:
- CPU usage during scans: 11–14%
- Performance impact: 1% for downloads, up to 23% for launching websites
- False positives: Zero
Built-In Protection Across All Browsers
Users of Microsoft Edge will get to enjoy SmartScreen filtering as part of the Microsoft Edge experience. For users of Chrome, Firefox or Opera, as part of their browsers, Network Protection continues to protect users, but notifications take the form of system alerts rather than browser notifications.
Security Is Also About Smart Behavior
Even the most advanced antivirus can't help if you ignore basic digital hygiene. Practising common sense online can dramatically reduce your risk of malware or data theft:
- Avoid opening suspicious email attachments.
- Never download pirated software or content.
- Keep Windows, your browser, and apps updated with the latest security patches.
- Use a password manager to generate and store strong, unique passwords for each account.
- Updates aren’t just optional—they’re your first line of defence against zero-day vulnerabilities and exploits.
What About Third-Party Antivirus Software?
Third-party security tools still offer value, particularly for users who need extra features such as:
- Webcam monitoring
- Parental controls
- Dark web data scanning
- VPN access
- Identity theft protection
However, these extras often come with a cost:
- Performance bloat
- Persistent upselling
- Privacy trade-offs
- Redundant protections (Windows disables its tools when third-party solutions are installed)
Free antivirus apps, in particular, can be more of a nuisance than a benefit. They constantly advertise premium upgrades while collecting user data.
So, Should You Still Install Antivirus?
If you’re a casual or moderately tech-savvy user who:
- Keeps your system and apps updated
- Uses strong, unique passwords
- Avoids shady downloads and suspicious links
…then Windows Security is more than sufficient.
But if you:
- Frequently handle sensitive information
- Share a PC with less tech-literate users
- Want advanced monitoring tools or identity theft protection
…then a premium third-party security suite might be worth the investment.
Final Verdict
Third-party antivirus software is not necessary for users of Windows 11, unless additional features are desired. Microsoft has filled the gap, and Microsoft’s free, built-in Windows Security suite now competes with the best on the market. Along with intelligent browsing practices, frequent updates, and good password practices, most online threats will be mitigated.
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