Windows Security
Windows Security: A free Windows-native security suite covering malware, ransomware, networks, and device controls. Ranked #15 of 117 in Antivirus Software by our editors (7.8/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free Windows-native security.
At a glance
- Editor score7.8 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forFree Windows-native security
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Protection scopeComplete security
- Founded1975 · Redmond, Washington, USA
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free protection built into Windows 10 and Windows 11
- Combines Defender, Firewall, SmartScreen, and ransomware controls
- Includes offline scans, protection history, and device-security settings
Where it doesn't
- Supports Windows 10 and Windows 11 only
- Its coverage is centered on the Windows security ecosystem
- Not intended for devices outside supported Windows versions
Our verdict on Windows Security
Windows Security is a free security app integrated into Windows 10 and Windows 11. It is intended for people who want built-in protection across malware scanning, unsafe apps and downloads, network filtering, ransomware controls, and device security. Microsoft Defender Antivirus provides quick, full, custom, and offline scans, along with real-time protection for files and programs. The app also brings these capabilities together in a security-status dashboard covering device health and account protection.
Its strongest point is the breadth of protection included within the Windows environment. Windows Firewall supports network filtering and network-profile management, while SmartScreen covers apps, files, websites, and downloads. Controlled folder access provides ransomware protection, and Protection history records Defender actions and removed potentially unwanted apps. Device-security controls include core isolation, TPM, and Secure Boot. Together, these features give Windows users a wide set of security controls without requiring a separate antivirus purchase.
Windows Security is the clearest fit for users running Windows 10 or Windows 11 who want free, integrated protection and direct access to Windows security settings. Its main boundary is platform coverage: the product is documented for Windows 10 and Windows 11, so it is not suited to households or teams seeking one security product across other operating systems. Choose it for Windows-native malware, ransomware, network, app, and device protection; consider an alternative when broader platform coverage is a requirement.
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Windows Security pricing
Windows Security fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Protection scope | Complete security |
| Device limit | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | Windows 10, Windows 11 |
| Ransomware protection | Yes |
| Parental controls | Not verified |
| Password manager | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | support.microsoft.com |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Windows Security
- 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 Windows Security alternatives →
Also Ranked In
Windows Security is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Featured on iTechGuides
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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