It’s taken a while, but Microsoft Defender is now generally available for all your personal devices, not just Windows PCs and businesses. The new Defender for individuals gives Microsoft 365 subscribers an online tool that strengthens the existing malware and phishing protections you (hopefully) use. It extends Windows anti-malware protection to Android, iOS, and macOS. You will also receive security warnings, solutions, and tips. You can manage the security of an entire family from a central dashboard and view the antivirus systems you already use (including third-party software).
Microsoft warned that new malware protections are not available if they already exist on iOS and Windows. Advice is only available on Macs and Windows systems.
Defender for individuals is included with Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions in most countries. Pricing starts at $70 per year for a personal account in the US. The company promised that this was “just the beginning” of its efforts and that it planned to introduce features such as identity theft protection and secure connections.
This will not necessarily replace all of your other defenses. You still want to be wary, especially of fraud and other digital crimes that Microsoft’s tool doesn’t currently cover. However, it can be a useful addition and is an easy choice if you already use Microsoft 365.
All products recommended by Engadget have been selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission.