Windows Defender
From HowToGeek
Windows Defender is Microsoft's Anti-Spyware application for all modern versions of Windows and comes bundled with Windows Vista.
Contents |
Overview
Windows Defender includes both regular scanning as well as real-time scanning for Spyware, both for files already on your local computer as well as files downloaded through Internet Explorer.
Besides those normal features, it allows you to disable ActiveX controls and startup applications, and automatically blocks any application requiring administrator privileges.
The major benefit for Windows Defender is that it doesn't slow the system down as badly as some of the other products on the market.[add reference]
History
This product was originally called GIANT AntiSpyware before Microsoft purchased the product and named it Microsoft AntiSpyware, and released it as a free download for XP. The product was then renamed again to Windows Defender and then included in Windows Vista.
Uninstallation
Windows Defender cannot be uninstalled in Windows Vista, but it can be disabled a number of ways. The easiest way to do this is to open up Options and uncheck all of the options:
You can also disable the Windows Defender service by going to Services and choosing to disable it:
You can also disable Windows Defender from Group Policy.
Trivia
- The Windows Defender window in Vista will not resize to smaller than 666 pixels wide.
See Also
- List of Free Anti-Spyware Applications
- Stop an Application From Running at Startup
- Geek Fun: Windows Defender Minimum Pixel Width
