The Truth about Anti-Virus

When it comes to keeping your computer safe from viruses and malware, there are plenty of options on the market, but they can often be confusing and expensive. For most people, especially seniors who use their computers for browsing, emails, and the occasional video call, Microsoft's built-in antivirus software, Microsoft Defender, is usually all you'll need to stay secure.

If you have a Windows computer, you already have access to Microsoft Defender. This software comes pre-installed with every Windows 10 & 11 PC and offers excellent real-time protection against threats like viruses, malware, and phishing attempts. The best part? It's completely free. Many people don’t realise that this built-in software is more than capable of handling everyday security needs, without the added costs of premium antivirus programs. Plus, it's very easy to use, with most of the updates happening in the background, meaning you don’t need to worry about constant notifications or managing it manually. To ensure it’s active, head to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security, and make sure all the options have a green shield. If not, go through the steps to turn them green.

For those using a Mac, the good news is that Microsoft Defender is also available if you're subscribed to Microsoft 365. It provides the same level of protection as the Windows version, giving Mac users peace of mind without needing to purchase additional software. It’s a reliable and affordable way to cover all your devices under one subscription.

You’ve probably heard of, or use, paid antivirus programs like Norton, McAfee, or Kaspersky. While they do offer some advanced features, they often come at a high cost. Norton, for example, is a popular name in the antivirus world, but it’s known for its high price tag and tendency to push users into paying for upgrades or additional services. Many seniors have reported that paid antivirus programs frequently bombard them with alerts, offering more and more expensive add-ons, leading to confusion and frustration.

Not only can paid antivirus programs like Norton be pricey, but they can also slow down your computer. Many of these programs run background scans and updates that use up valuable system resources, making your computer sluggish. With Microsoft Defender, these processes are optimised for Windows and tend to have a much lighter impact on performance.

For most users, simplicity is key. Microsoft Defender offers a hassle-free solution that comes built-in with your Windows computer. You don’t need to worry about managing complicated settings or being bombarded by upgrade prompts. It just works, quietly in the background, ensuring your computer stays protected.

However, no matter how strong your antivirus protection is, it won't stop you from accidentally—or even intentionally—downloading malware. This is why it’s essential to always be cautious. Be wary of any suspicious links, emails, or files you come across, and avoid downloading anything from unknown sources. Remember, your best line of defence is often your own caution, rather than any antivirus software.

If you're still worried about needing extra protection, there are some simple steps you can take to keep your computer even more secure. Regularly updating your system and applications is crucial—this helps patch any security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers. Make sure you have strong, unique passwords for your accounts, and consider enabling two-factor authentication where possible.

For everyday use, there’s no need to spend extra money on expensive antivirus software when Microsoft Defender already offers robust protection for free. It's easy to use, effective, and doesn’t slow your computer down. Whether you're on a Windows PC or a Mac with Microsoft 365, you can trust that Defender has you covered.

If you’re feeling uncertain about your antivirus setup or need help navigating these choices, Greyology is here for you. Give us a call, and we can walk you through your options, making sure your computer stays secure without the stress of managing complicated and costly software.

Edin Read, Founder and Chief Technician at Greyology – Tech Support for Seniors. Visit www.greyology.com.au for more info.