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Microsoft today launched a new security tool designed to make personal device security simplified. It combines several security components into a single dashboard and is called Microsoft Defender for individuals. In fact, the tool can show the security features of some of the top antivirus software, such as Norton and MacAfee. Importantly, it can protect a number of devices in addition to Windows-based PCs.
The Microsoft Defender app is now available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Microsoft Defender is included with Microsoft 365 Family ($9.99/mo.) or Personal ($6.99/mo.) plans.
Vasu Jakkal, CVP of Microsoft Security, Compliance, Identity & Privacy, highlighted that since people use a variety of devices security efforts can be split. “To help keep your data private and devices secure, people often turn to multiple security products, with scattered security monitoring and device management. This fragmentation makes keeping up with increasing online threats even harder.”
Microsoft Defender for individuals protects devices and provides security advice to plug any security flaws. Continuous anti-virus and anti-phishing security for data and devices are also included.
Microsoft highlighted four ways that Microsoft Defender for individuals provides protection:
- Manage your security protections, and view security protections for everyone in your family, from a single, easy-to-use, and centralized dashboard.
- View your existing antivirus protection (Norton, MacAfee, etc.). Defender recognizes these protections within the dashboard.
- Extend Windows device protections to iOS, Android, and Mac devices for cross-platform malware protection on the devices you and your family use the most.
- Receive instant security alerts, resolution strategies, and expert tips to help keep your data and devices secure.
Microsoft promises to bring more protection features in the future, including “features like identity theft protection and secure online connection.”
