5 settings to change for Windows Defender antivirus

Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus program in Windows 10 and newer versions, designed to protect your PC from viruses, malware, and other security threats. While it provides basic protection, there are certain settings you can adjust to enhance its effectiveness and tailor it to your specific needs. Here are five settings you can change for Windows Defender antivirus: 

Protect your files with controlled folder access

In the digital age, protecting your files and sensitive data from cyber threats is of utmost importance. With the increasing number of cyber-attacks and ransomware incidents, having robust security measures in place is crucial. One such method to safeguard your files is through the use of Controlled Folder Access in Windows Defender.

Controlled Folder Access is a feature in Windows Defender Security Center that helps protect your important data from unauthorized access and changes by malicious applications, including ransomware. This feature can be especially useful for individuals and organizations looking to enhance the security of their files and prevent potential data breaches.

 

Turn off unnecessary notifications

Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus program that helps protect your computer against malware and other security threats. While it plays a crucial role in keeping your system safe, the notifications it generates can sometimes be annoying, especially when they constantly pop up on your screen.

If you find the notifications from Windows Defender to be disruptive or unnecessary, you have the option to customize your settings and turn off notifications for specific events or altogether. This guide will walk you through the steps to disable unnecessary notifications in Windows Defender. 

you can easily customize the notification settings in Windows Defender to reduce unnecessary alerts and maintain a less intrusive security monitoring experience on your Windows computer. Remember that while turning off notifications can help in reducing distractions, it is essential to stay vigilant and keep your system protected by regularly updating your antivirus software and performing scans periodically.

 

Ditch the system tray icon — especially the second one

while the Windows Defender system tray icon serves as a visual indicator of system protection, there are valid reasons to consider removing it. By ditching the system tray icon, you can potentially improve system performance, reduce visual clutter, and customize your desktop to suit your preferences. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on your individual needs and preferences.

from the Start menu. It just won’t appear in your PC’s system tray. 

 

Set up exclusions to speed things up

Setting up exclusions in Windows Security is a straightforward process. First, open the Windows Security app by searching for it in the Windows search bar. Then, navigate to the “Virus & threat protection” section and click on “Manage settings.” Here, you will find the option to add or remove exclusions. You can choose to exclude files, folders, file types, processes, or even websites from being scanned by the security software.

 Consider whether core isolation is right for your PC

Core isolation is a security feature in Windows that can help protect your PC from various types of attacks and malware. It works by isolating critical parts of the operating system in a protected environment, making it more difficult for attackers to gain access and compromise the system.

When considering whether core isolation is right for your PC, there are several factors to take into account. Here are some important considerations to help you decide if core isolation is a good fit for your Windows security:  

Prefer another antivirus? You don’t need to turn off Defender

In the world of cybersecurity, having robust protection against malicious software and cyber threats is paramount. Windows Defender, the built-in antivirus software that comes with Windows operating systems, is a reliable and effective tool for many users. However, some individuals may prefer to use third-party antivirus solutions for various reasons, such as additional features, customization options, or brand preference.

It is a common misconception that using another antivirus software alongside Windows Defender can cause conflicts and lead to performance issues on your system. In reality, modern antivirus programs are designed to be compatible with each other, allowing users to benefit from the strengths of multiple security solutions concurrently.

By adjusting these settings, you can enhance the capabilities of Windows Defender antivirus and ensure better protection for your PC. Remember to regularly update Windows Defender to receive the latest security updates and stay protected against new threats.