Microsoft Defender is now in preview but only in the U.S.

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Key notes

  • Windows Insiders in the US can already download and test the new software.
  • We're talking about the new Microsoft Defender Preview for Windows 10 and 11.
  • The updated interface will make it much easier to keep track of device security.
  • However, Microsoft specified that although it's free now, it will be a paid service.
defender

Securing our PCs is a top priority and we should always make sure we are taking the necessary steps in order to keep ourselves and our private data protected.

Going the extra mile in order to ensure appropriate security shouldn’t be seen as a chore, but more as a beneficial step that keeps malicious third parties away.

People use all sorts of antivirus software, but if you are among those that rely on Microsoft’s Defender for your safety, here’s what you should know about the software.

Get ready for the new Microsoft Defender Preview

UPDATE: Since last we spoke about this new preview and shared that you can actually find it on the Microsoft Store, the tech giant has made an important update.

Thus, Windows Insiders can download and preview Microsoft Defender, a new Windows, Android, and iOS app that helps protect you and your family’s data and devices against online threats.

The key to Microsoft Defender is the ability to view and manage your online security in one central dashboard view, across your devices, and your family member’s devices.

You also get added malware and phishing protection on your mobile devices. The ability to view your family’s devices is currently only available in the Windows app.

The Microsoft Defender preview is available in English and U.S. only for the preview.


The Redmond-based tech company is currently working on a new Defender Preview that will be available for both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

What’s important to take away here, is the fact that this app won’t actually replace the default Defender software that is installed on your PC.

This new app is basically an extra program that complements the present one, so you can think about it as more of a dashboard.

Now in preview, Microsoft Defender helps protect your data and devices from malicious threats. Easily manage your online security in one centralized view, with industry-leading cybersecurity for you, your family, and your devices. Stay safer with real-time notifications, security tips, and recommend steps that help keep you ahead of hackers and scammers for your peace of mind.

The revamped interface will show you important information such as security tips, if the device is currently secured or not, and of course, a section for notifications.

Under Protect all your devices, you will find a list of all the other devices that you have connected to the account.

According to the Microsoft Store description, the new Defender Preview will display real-time notifications in order to alert you if anything fishy is going on.

However, there’s another important detail to keep in mind. On the above-mentioned listing, the Redmond tech giant also specified if the software will continue to be free in the future.

No subscription is required for Microsoft Defender Preview. In the future, Microsoft Defender will require a Microsoft 365 Family or Personal subscription.

The only question that remains is what kind of limitations will the free version have, and what do paying users get extra?

Even though the Microsoft Defender Preview is available for download, it hasn’t been announced officially yet, and it’s likely to be unveiled in this week’s Windows 11 Insider Preview Build.

Microsoft Defender Preview seems like a nice app, and the endpoint-like experience will surely be useful for users who want to manage the security of their not-so-tech-savvy family members’ computers remotely.

Would you be willing to pay for the enhanced version of Microsoft Defender? Share your opinion with us in the comments section below.

More about the topics: Windows 11 Software & Apps