14 DAY TRIAL // Fresh releases of Windows Defender, for both 32-bit and 64-bit platforms, are available for download from Microsoft. Windows Defender is a free solution from Microsoft sharing the same engine as the company's Windows Live OneCare anti-virus. Validation is mandatory for the download, but once scanned by the Windows genuine Advantage mechanism users will be able to access the 4.9 MB and 7 MB downloads.
Windows Defender falls under the first line of defense category, but it is an extra security barrier for Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1; Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 2; Windows XP Service Pack 2. Microsoft is no longer offering Windows 2000, since Windows Defender as the mainstream support for the operating system came to an end in June 2005.
Microsoft has also integrated Windows Defender into its latest operating system Windows Vista. Consequently, on Vista users only have to update the product, although installing additional security solutions on the platform will disable Defender. In fact, Windows Defender was set into place as a default line of protection especially for computers which lack alternative security.
The latest version of Windows Defender has brought to the table a set of enhancements. Users will be able to enjoy an overhauled graphical user interface and extended support. In this regard, Microsoft not only delivers Windows Defender for both x86 and x64 copies of Windows Server 2003 and Windows XP, but also comes with two free support incidents.
Microsoft has additionally touted the improved detection and removal capabilities of Windows Defender along with new Delta definitions updates. "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. Windows Defender now downloads smaller delta definition updates when possible which reduces the time required to download and install definition updates. Customers can expect shorter download times when updating their definition updates," Microsoft revealed.
Microsoft Windows Defender was tested by Softpedia as being 100% Clean and is available for download here.