Microsoft says Windows 11’s built-in 'Defender' antivirus is "usually sufficient" for most PC users: "I haven't used a 3rd party antivirus since XP"

The company says Defender is enough for most users, provided default protections stay on, and updates are installed regularly.

In a world where bad actors are increasingly adopting sophisticated techniques to deploy malicious attacks, including general artificial intelligence to unsuspecting users, it feels like a no-brainer to have some kind of antivirus installed on your device.

Having an antivirus installed helps protect you against malware, phishing attacks, and ransomware that can give hackers unauthorized access to sensitive data. Luckily, Microsoft ships Windows 11 with Microsoft Defender as an in-box app to help curb such issues and provide users with real-time protection and advanced features designed to keep their system secure.

“For many Windows 11 users, Microsoft Defender Antivirus covers everyday risk without requiring additional software,” Microsoft indicated in a Learning Center article earlier this month (via Windows Latest). This seems to have been fuelled by users going the extra mile to install third-party antivirus software on their devices to handle the same task.

Microsoft's response to skeptics questioning Defender's capabilities is simple and clear: “Windows antivirus protection is usually sufficient when Windows 11 runs with default protections enabled, updates are installed regularly, and software downloads are deliberate.”

However, the tech giant hasn't completely written off the value of third-party antivirus software, especially depending on how you use your Windows PC and the features you value.

Why not run multiple antivirus programs on your Windows PC, including Microsoft Defender? The company warned that it may cause system conflicts and stress your device's resources.

Microsoft also warned users against over-reliance on third-party antivirus software, citing that “each added tool increases background activity and complexity, so choose tools that match real needs.” As expected, the company used the opportunity to toot its own horn, highlighting the benefits of using Microsoft Defender as your default antivirus in Windows 11, including anti-phishing and ransomware protection.

I did some brief groundwork to see what the community thinks about Microsoft Defender in Windows 11. In the r/Windows11 subreddit on Reddit, a user asked whether they'll need a third-party antivirus or if Microsoft Defender would suffice

Everyone in the comment section pretty much said the same thing: Microsoft Defender is enough and works just fine. "I haven't used a 3rd party antivirus since XP," a user indicated. "Windows Defender is enough and maybe even too much," another user added.

Do you use Microsoft Defender on Windows 11? Let me know in the comments.

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Posted Thursday 23 April 2026 at 7:35 am AEST (my time).

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