Does Windows 11 Need Antivirus Software for Data Protection?
Does Windows 11 need antivirus software for data and privacy protection? Continue reading to get an in-depth idea of Windows 11’s security system and whether you need a third-party antivirus for complete protection.
More than 31% of global computer devices run on the Windows operating system. Thus, hackers and fraudsters develop viruses, malware, trojans, ransomware, and spyware targeting Windows devices.
Since the malicious programs mainly target Windows devices, Microsoft has also focused on developing multiple security features for their latest release: Windows 11 OS. Though these features are adequate, you may still need a third-party tool to protect yourself from viruses.
Windows 11 Security Features
Windows 11 comes with multiple security features, and these are:
1. Windows Defender
Windows Defender is the native antivirus of Windows 11. It’s a basic security system that protects you from a number of online and offline threats. Windows Defender also receives real-time definition updates or security intelligence from Microsoft.
The antivirus definition updates help Windows Defender to identify and quarantine the latest viruses and malicious tools. It offers virus scan options like Quick scan, Full scan, offline scan, and so on.
2. Windows 11 S mode
Windows 11 S mode is a walled garden environment for Windows 11 users. It’s most effective for home use like watching movies, basic internet browsing, lightweight Microsoft apps, etc.
Windows tries to protect your data by restricting you to the Microsoft Edge browser and Microsoft Store apps.
3. BitLocker
BitLocker is an encryption system that Windows 11 uses to protect hardware, disk data, and the Windows installation drive. However, utilizing this feature needs a trusted platform module 1.2 (TPM) or later.
Additionally, it needs BitLocker deployment expertise. Therefore, only enterprise users use this feature.
4. Family Options
The Family options work like a parental control system. You can set screen time, restrict apps, block websites, and track family devices’ health. The options offered here are pretty basic.
Does Windows 11 Need Antivirus Even Now?
So far, you’ve learned about the protective and security features of Windows 11. As you can see, BitLocker isn’t that useful if you don’t have TPM 1.2 or later. Also, you’ll need to invest a lot of time in managing it.
Windows 11 S mode is a highly restricted computing environment that may not suit your digital lifestyle. For example, you won’t be able to use the Google Chrome browser. Moreover, S mode doesn’t allow the installation of third-party software, tools, and games.
The Family options also require a lot of setups to be done which is a hectic process. Lastly, Windows 11 doesn’t offer ransomware protection other than the option to backup data to OneDrive.
Therefore, if you’re a pro computer user and expecting a lot of risk from online and offline sources, you should get a third-party antivirus. A dedicated antivirus tool automatically deploys and manages security protocols so that you can focus on work or entertainment.
Final Thoughts
The online world is changing by the hour. Newer threats emerge all the time to rob PC users of their money, identity, and private data. Hence, instead of all the protective features in Windows 11, everyone is asking the same question, “does Windows 11 need antivirus?”
Now that you know what you should do, it’ll be easier for you to plan your PC protection depending on your digital lifestyle. You may also want to protect your data further by using the best VPN services out there. VPNs help you hide your private data while surfing the net.
