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Windows security that doesn’t stop

Before you even start up your computer, Windows 11 is on guard. Cutting-edge hardware and innovative software work in tandem to help keep your identity, information, and apps secure.* Learn about malware protections, WiFi security, and all the other ways Windows 11 defends your devices.

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Malware has met its match

Windows 11 comes with cutting-edge security features that help protect you from malware.While staying vigilant is the most important protective measure you can take, malware security features in Windows 11 also help provide real-time detection and protection.

What is malware?

What is malware?

Any software created to intentionally harm a computer can be considered malware. Common types include viruses, trojans, spyware and ransomware. How they operate can vary from stealing your passwords to holding your files for ransom until you pay.

Microsoft Defender Antivirus

A next-generation protection solution that comes with Windows 11, Microsoft Defender Antivirus is real-time, always-on antivirus protection for your Windows devices.

Microsoft Defender SmartScreen

If a website, application or download is potentially malicious and could harm your computer, SmartScreen will warn you.

Windows Firewall

Windows Firewall can help prevent hackers or malicious software from gaining access to your PC through the internet or a network.

Bluetooth security

Whether you’re using Bluetooth headsets, mice, keyboards or other wireless accessories, you can feel confident that it’s a secure Bluetooth connection.

Wi-Fi security

Windows Wi-Fi supports industry-standardised authentication and encryption methods, to help keep you safe no matter where you connect—even on public networks.

Virtual private networks (VPN)

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a secure tunnel connecting your PC and the internet. A variety of VPN apps are available in the Microsoft Store.

Laptop with Privacy & security window on screen

Innovative identity protection

Windows 11 PCs protect your identity by using advanced security methods for logging into your device.There are over 920 password attacks every second. That’s why we’ve innovated security solutions that redefine log-in credentials. Windows 11 validates your credentials using either a device-specific PIN code, fingerprint or facial recognition1 – protecting you from phishing and other network attacks, including password leaks.

What is phishing?

What is phishing?

There are dozens of types of password attacks. One of the most common is phishing, a cybercrime where malicious actors disguise themselves as legitimate institutions or people you trust in order to steal your passwords and access your data. To combat this, look out for emails from unknown, unusual or misspelled senders. Hover your cursor over links in emails to check if a different URL is embedded. Avoid using pirated software.

Windows Hello

Windows Hello is a more personal, more secure way to get instant access to your Windows 11 devices using a PIN, facial recognition or fingerprint.1

Passkey

Passkeys reduce phishing attacks by signing into web sites and apps backed by Windows Hello1 security. Passkeys are basically digital credentials that are stored on your device—making for a very secure and fast way to sign into online accounts.

Wake on approach and lock on leave

If your PC has a presence detection sensor, Windows 11 can automatically lock your device by using facial recognition when you walk away. This Windows security feature can also unlock your device and sign you back in with Windows Hello when you return.

Microsoft Authenticator App

The Microsoft Authenticator app provides easy, secure sign-ins for all your online accounts using multifactor authentication, passwordless phone sign-in or password autofill.

Find My Device

When enabled, Find My Device can be used to help recover lost or stolen hardware, reducing security threats that rely on physical access to devices.

Privacy Dashboard

The Privacy Dashboard is a simple view where you can manage data, export reports, and view which apps are using your camera, mic, and even your location.

Microsoft Edge screen with apps

Strong and secure apps

Cybercriminals can gain access to your data by hacking your applications.Windows 11 security features protect your most valuable information in multiple ways. In addition to the built-in protections that help keep you from downloading suspicious or potentially unwanted apps, Windows 11 also comes with a suite of Microsoft-developed apps that help keep you protected, both online and off.

What is a potentially unwanted app (PUA)?

What is a potentially unwanted app (PUA)?

Potentially unwanted applications (PUA) are a category of software that can cause your machine to run slowly, display unexpected ads, or at worst, install other software that might be even more harmful or otherwise unwelcome. While not considered a virus or malware, PUA might perform actions that adversely affect performance.

Microsoft Edge

In addition to blocking ad trackers and defending against malware, Microsoft Edge can monitor2 the web to check if your passwords have been compromised. It’s the most secure browser on Windows 11.

Get Microsoft Edge

OneDrive

With OneDrive PC Backup on Windows 11, documents and pictures folders are automatically backed up, giving them a second life—and giving you extra peace of mind.3

Discover OneDrive

Microsoft Family Safety

Microsoft Family Safety4 helps develop healthy digital habits with transparency into your family’s activities. Use content filtering settings to block inappropriate apps and games, and limit browsing to child-friendly websites using Microsoft Edge on Windows, Xbox and Android.

Explore Microsoft Family Safety

Smart App Control

Smart App Control takes the stress out of downloading and installing apps by only allowing apps predicted to be safe to run on your Windows PC. This security feature is available only on the latest version of Windows 11 in the United States and Western Europe.5

Explore Smart App Control

Microsoft 365 Defender App

A Microsoft 365 Personal or Family subscription includes the Microsoft Defender app6, giving you real-time security notifications, expert tips, and recommendations that help protect you from hackers and scammers. It works with multiple devices and comes with identity threat monitoring, which helps you and your family stay safer online.

Explore Microsoft 365 Defender
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Modern protection against modern threats

Ever-evolving security threats require top-level security features to keep users, identities, data and devices protected. In Windows 11, hardware and software work together to help protect you and your information. Browse Windows 11-equipped devices now.

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Windows security, continued

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Our commitment to protect

With thousands of Windows security experts working to hunt down threats, fix vulnerabilities, and stay a step ahead of cybercriminals—we’re doing all we can to help keep you safe.

Microsoft Support Security hub

Something bugging you?

The Microsoft Windows Insider Preview bounty programme invites eligible researchers across the globe to find and submit vulnerabilities. Qualified submissions are eligible for awards from $500 USD to $100,000 USD.

Windows Insider Preview Programme

Supporting your security

Windows Security is your home to manage the tools that protect your device and your data. Access Windows Security by going to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.

Manage Windows Security
  • Screens simulated. Features and app availability may vary by region.
  • Some features require specific hardware. Learn more at Windows 11 Specs and System Requirements.
  • * For supported devices with latest security updates installed.
  • 1 Facial and fingerprint recognition work with devices equipped with the correct sensors. PIN, facial and fingerprint recognition require Windows Hello to be set up.
  • 2 Available on the latest version of Microsoft Edge. Must be signed into a Microsoft account.
  • 3 Files may be made available for offline use. Otherwise, internet access required. Fees may apply. OneDrive files are restored to the state they were in before the attack occurred. File versions created up to 30 days in the past can be restored at any time for any reason. Requires Microsoft account.
  • 4 App available as separate download for free. Location permissions must be active; driving safety available only in the US, UK, Australia and Canada; Microsoft 365 Family subscription required for location alerts and drive safety features.
  • 5 Only available on the latest version of Windows 11. In order to keep you as safe as possible, you must start with a fresh system. PCs that have been running previous versions of Windows must do a full reset of the Windows 11 operating system for the feature to work. Available in North America and Europe.
  • 6 App availability varies by geography.