Ransomware is nasty stuff. This type of malware encrypts files on your PC so that you can’t access them—unless you pay the attacker to unlock the data. In other words, your files are held hostage ...

We explore how Windows Security and Microsoft Defender protect your Windows 11 computer and why you might want to consider an alternative. Dianna Gunn built her first WordPress website in 2008. Since ...

Overview: Cyber threats now target individuals across PCs, Macs, and smartphonesModern antivirus tools protect against ...

If you use a Windows laptop in 2025, chances are you store important files on it: work documents, school projects, bank details, or personal photos. Unfortunately, the more connected we are, the more ...

All modern Windows PCs come with Microsoft Defender built in. For the unaware, this tool is Windows’ native antivirus. Over time, it has matured into a reliable security tool capable of blocking a ...

Toggle the Real-time protection switch off. You may receive a User Account Control (UAC) prompt asking if you want to allow the change to occur. Select Yes. When you're ready to turn system protection ...

Once upon a time, an antivirus program would be the one of the first pieces of software you would install on a new Windows PC. Now, that’s much less common. Many users instead now rely on the Windows ...

Using a Windows 11 PC is a great experience, but what about protecting it from cybercriminals with bad intentions? Fortunately, your Windows 11 PC comes with Windows Security built in, and it does a ...

In recent years, users have repeatedly reported that “Windows Security” no longer starts. As Windows virus protection is also included here, this error should be ...

ZDNET experts put every product through rigorous testing and research to curate the best options for you. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn Our Process 'ZDNET Recommends': ...

If Windows Security shows Unknown status in Windows 11, this post may help you. Windows Security offers features and tools that protect your PC from threats, including viruses, malware, ransomware, ...