Windows Defender
(Beta 2) is a free program that helps protect your computer against
pop-ups, slow performance, and security threats caused by spyware
and other unwanted software. It features Real-Time Protection, a
monitoring system that recommends actions against spyware when it's
detected, and a new streamlined interface that minimizes
interruptions and helps you stay productive. Windows Defender (Beta
2) detects and removes known spyware from your computer, which helps
make your Internet browsing safer. The software uses automatic
definition updates provided by Microsoft analysts to help detect and
remove new threats as the threats are identified.
Specific features
of Windows Defender Beta 2 include:
• A redesigned and
simplified user interface – Incorporating feedback from our
customers, the Windows Defender UI has been redesigned to make
common tasks easier to accomplish with a warning system that adapts
alert levels according to the severity of a threat so that it is
less intrusive overall, but still ensures the user does not miss the
most urgent alerts.
• Improved
detection and removal – Based on a new engine, Windows Defender is
able to detect and remove more threats posed by spyware and other
potentially unwanted software. Real Time Protection has also been
enhanced to better monitor key points in the operating system for
changes.
• Protection for
all users – Windows Defender can be run by all users on a computer
with or without administrative privileges. This ensures that all
users on a computer are protected by Windows Defender.
• Support for
64-bit platforms, accessibility and localization - Windows Defender
Beta 2 also adds support for accessibility and 64-bit platforms.
Microsoft also plans to release German and Japanese localized
versions of Windows Defender Beta 2 soon after the availability of
the English versions. Use WindowsDefenderX64.msi for 64-bit
platforms.
