Microsoft Defender for Individuals
Microsoft Defender for Individuals: A practical Microsoft 365 add-on for protecting devices, links, identities, and files. Ranked #84 of 117 in Antivirus Software by our editors (3.0/10); pricing: Paid; best for microsoft 365 subscribers wanting device security.
At a glance
- Editor score3.0 / 10
- PricingPaid
- Best forMicrosoft 365 subscribers wanting device security
- Free planNo
- Protection scopeComplete security
- Facts checked24 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Malware scanning across Windows, macOS, and Android
- Web protection blocks harmful links and sends real-time alerts
- OneDrive ransomware protection and family security-status sharing
Where it doesn't
- Requires a Microsoft 365 Personal, Family, or Premium subscription
- Standalone antivirus purchasing is not available
- Family sharing features require Microsoft 365 Family
Our verdict on Microsoft Defender for Individuals
Microsoft Defender for Individuals is a cross-device security app for people and families who already subscribe to Microsoft 365. It combines malware scanning, web protection, real-time security notifications, identity-theft monitoring, security recommendations, and a central dashboard for device status. The app runs on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and the web, with malware detection listed for Windows, macOS, and Android. Its scope suits households that want device and identity protection connected to Microsoft services rather than a standalone antivirus purchase.
Pricing is tied to three annual Microsoft 365 plans. Microsoft 365 Personal costs $99.99 per year for 1 person and supports up to 5 devices simultaneously, adding Defender advanced security for identity, personal data, and devices plus OneDrive ransomware protection. Microsoft 365 Family costs $129.99 per year for 1 to 6 people, with up to 5 devices per person, Defender, and family device- and identity-status sharing. Microsoft 365 Premium costs $199.99 per year for 1 to 6 people and up to 5 devices per person, with Defender included alongside advanced Copilot features. The paid tiers therefore bundle security with the broader Microsoft 365 subscription rather than offering separate Defender pricing.
Microsoft Defender fits especially well with Microsoft 365 and OneDrive. Its web portal provides threat monitoring and step-by-step resolution guidance, while the dashboard brings device security status together. OneDrive ransomware protection extends coverage to photos and files, and Family subscribers can share device-security status across the household. Choose it if cross-platform coverage, family visibility, identity monitoring, and Microsoft service integration are priorities. Choose another antivirus product if you want a standalone plan without Microsoft 365 or need security features outside this product’s stated scope.
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Microsoft Defender for Individuals pricing
All 3 Microsoft Defender for Individuals plans and prices →
Microsoft Defender for Individuals fact sheet
| Free plan | No |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Protection scope | Complete security |
| Device limit | 5 devices |
| Supported platforms | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
| Ransomware protection | Yes |
| Parental controls | Not verified |
| Password manager | Not verified |
| Deployment | Cloud, Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Paid (source) |
| Website | microsoft.com |
| Facts checked | 24 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Microsoft Defender for Individuals
- Microsoft Defender for BusinessA focused endpoint security subscription with EDR and centralized controls for small businesses.9.4
- Bitdefender GravityZone Small Business SecurityA paid endpoint security suite for small businesses needing layered protection and central control.9.3
- Bitdefender Total SecurityA broad security suite for families protecting PCs, Macs, phones, and tablets.9.2
See all Microsoft Defender for Individuals alternatives →
Also Ranked In
Microsoft Defender for Individuals is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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