To obtain Microsoft Defender, you’ll need to purchase a PC or laptop running the Windows operating system. Microsoft Defender fits into the broader Windows Security offering, including ransomware protection, parental controls, Windows Hello password management, and more. ESET vs Microsoft Defender pricingĪs we move on to pricing, it is worth noting that Microsoft Defender cannot technically compete in this category as its plan comes bundled with Windows 10 and Windows 11 free. What started as a spyware detection tool has evolved into software that now detects viruses, malware, and more sophisticated threats. Windows Defender Antivirus and Windows Defender are former names for Microsoft Defender, which were deployed in pre-Windows 10 operating systems. Microsoft Defender is deployed to Windows operating systems as part of the Windows Security portfolio and was first available with Windows XP as a free downloadable antispyware tool in 2004. The cybersecurity company was founded in what was then Czechoslovakia in 1993.Īt the time of writing, the company has a revenue of 504 million EUR and has a team of 1684 employees. In 2008, 2009, and 2010 ESET was recognized as the most successful business in Slovakia. Summary: ESET vs Microsoft Defender ESETīEST DEAL FOR ESET: Save 25% on a 2-year plan and get premium security features for all devices.īEST DEAL FOR MICROSOFT DEFENDER: Pay absolutely nothing for Microsoft Defender when you purchase a Windows PC. ESET includes a broader range of internet protection, including webcam controls and password management features.

It is the best overall malware detector and has a more intuitive user interface that caters to beginners and advanced users. If you’re only here to find out the winner without all the deeper analysis, I can reveal that ESET is the champion. I’ve listed the features, malware detection, pricing, usability, and customer support for both providers to make your search a little easier. Meanwhile, recent figures show that ESET, operating its HQ from Slovakia, protects over 110 million PCs worldwide. Microsoft Defender, operated by tech giant Microsoft, is the default security software deployed on Windows devices globally. I’ve put ESET and Microsoft defender side by side to help you discover the provider that suits your requirements the most. Choosing the best antivirus software to protect your system is no easy feat when so many providers seemingly offer the same service.

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