The Windows Security app (previously known as Windows Defender Security Center) gives you centralized access for all things security related
It can be accessed via the Start Menu or via the icon in the task bar (as shown circled in red below)
Once opened you will see the main screen below which shows at at glance if you are protected and everything is working okay by the green ticks
N.B. Some of these options may be disabled if you have other security software installed
It is divided into several areas which are explained in more detail in the table below:-
|
Virus & threat protection |
Shows the current status of your antivirus/malware protection |
|
Account protection |
Checks security of the account you use to login to Windows, advises if not using a Microsoft Account, and suggests best ways to login to your device e.g. Windows Hello, password or PIN |
|
Firewall & network protection |
Provides information on the network connections and active Windows Firewall settings, as well as links to network troubleshooting information |
|
App & browser control |
Allows you to adjust settings for SmartScreen for apps and browsers helping you be more informed and stay safer online by warning you of potential malicious sites, downloads and unrecognized apps and files from the Internet. |
|
Device Security |
Shows the security features built in to to your device e.g. security features built into Intel and AMD processors, TPM chips on motherboard to deal with encryption, and whether secure boot is enabled |
|
Device performance & health |
Provides a overview of the latest Windows updates, drivers, battery life and storage capacity |
|
Family options |
Gives you an easy way to connect to the family options available online. This page can link you to information about parental controls, options for setting up good screen time habits, setting up activity reports of your kids’ online activity and managing controls for purchasing apps and games |
