Mcafee vs Microsoft Defender

August 06, 2023 | Author: Michael Stromann
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Mcafee
McAfee is owned by Intel. Delivering proactive and proven security solutions and services that help secure systems and networks around the world, Intel Security protects consumers and businesses of all sizes from the latest malware and emerging online threats. Our solutions are designed to work together, integrating anti-malware, antispyware, and antivirus software with security management features that deliver unsurpassed real-time visibility and analytics, reduce risk, ensure compliance, improve Internet security, and help businesses achieve operational efficiencies.
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Microsoft Defender
Microsoft Defender is working to protect your Windows 10 PC by scanning for malicious software. Microsoft Defender uses real-time protection to scan everything you download or run on your PC. It will turn itself off if you install another antivirus app.
McAfee and Microsoft Defender are two well-known antivirus software solutions that offer protection against various threats, but they have notable differences in terms of features, performance, and user experience.

McAfee is a comprehensive antivirus program that provides a wide range of features, including real-time threat detection, malware scanning, firewall protection, email and web browsing safety, and identity theft protection. It offers multiple subscription plans with varying levels of features and additional security tools.

On the other hand, Microsoft Defender, previously known as Windows Defender, is the default antivirus software included with Windows operating systems. It provides basic antivirus and anti-malware protection, real-time scanning, and system vulnerability checks. Microsoft Defender is integrated into the Windows Security Center and receives regular updates from Microsoft.

See also: Top 10 Antivirus Software
Mcafee vs Microsoft Defender in our news:

2021. Microsoft launches Defender for Business



Microsoft has unveiled Microsoft Defender for Business, an innovative and affordable endpoint security solution designed specifically to cater to businesses employing up to 300 individuals. This new offering from Microsoft enhances security measures beyond traditional antivirus systems by providing next-generation protection, endpoint detection and response capabilities, threat and vulnerability management, and more. With simplified configuration and management, along with intelligent and automated investigation and remediation, Defender for Business ensures robust security. It safeguards against a range of cybersecurity threats, including malware and ransomware, across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. Available as a standalone solution, it can be obtained for a cost of $3 per user per month.


2021. Investor consortium to acquire McAfee for $14B



In a fascinating development, cybersecurity software company McAfee has taken a new turn as an investor consortium comprising six investment firms has announced its acquisition of the company for a staggering $14 billion. Each member of the investor group will contribute financial and operational resources, although the exact details of how this collaboration will unfold remain somewhat unclear. With multiple companies involved, McAfee will undoubtedly have to navigate through a complex managerial landscape. It is noteworthy that the deal includes a "go shop" provision, a common practice that grants McAfee a 45-day period to explore potential alternatives and potentially secure a better offer. While the likelihood of a superior proposal is minimal, this provision assures shareholders that the company has pursued the best possible deal on their behalf.


2021. McAfee sells its enterprise business



Security company McAfee has announced the sale of its enterprise business to a consortium led by private equity firm Symphony Technology Group for a staggering $4 billion. This strategic move aligns nicely with the acquisition of RSA, another enterprise-focused security company, which the private equity firm bought for $2 billion in February last year. McAfee's President and CEO, Peter Leav, explains that the company has made the decision to shift its focus and allocate resources towards the consumer side of the business.


2019. Microsoft Defender comes to Mac



Microsoft Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) will be available for Mac as well. Previously, it served as a Windows solution designed to safeguard the machines of Microsoft 365 subscribers and the assets managed by IT administrators. Formerly known as Windows Defender ATP, Microsoft has decided to drop the "Windows Defender" name since it is now accessible on Mac. Many enterprises utilize a combination of Windows and Mac machines and already equip their employees with Office. By having a security solution that covers both systems, IT departments can significantly simplify their operations, as managing security vulnerabilities on a single system is challenging enough as it is.


2016. Microsoft released Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection


WDATP is a cloud service offered by Windows Defender, the built-in antivirus in Windows. Currently, Windows Defender primarily focuses on scanning websites and downloads to prevent hacking attempts. However, in the era of social engineering and spear-phishing, antivirus software needs to adopt a more proactive approach. Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (WDATP) aims to address this by shifting its attention from monitoring individual files to observing the overall behavior of a machine. Instead of simply searching for specific viruses, WDATP keeps a close watch on symptoms that indicate potential threats. For instance, if a machine starts establishing connections with unusual ports or executing uncommon PowerShell commands—behavior that deviates from the norm for most users—WDAPT alerts administrators. It provides them with an overview of both current and historical machine behavior for further analysis. Moreover, Microsoft is capitalizing on the extensive Windows user base to jumpstart its antivirus program. By analyzing millions of suspicious files from machines worldwide in the cloud, a vast centralized database is being constructed, encompassing not only malicious files but also malicious behavior.

Author: Michael Stromann
Michael is an expert in IT Service Management, IT Security and software development. With his extensive experience as a software developer and active involvement in multiple ERP implementation projects, Michael brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his writings. Having previously worked at SAP, he has honed his expertise and gained a deep understanding of software development and implementation processes. Currently, as a freelance developer, Michael continues to contribute to the IT community by sharing his insights through guest articles published on several IT portals. You can contact Michael by email stromann@liventerprise.com