Why Most Windows 11 Users Don't Need Antivirus Software?

While conventional wisdom says you need antivirus software to stay safe online, most Windows 11 users probably don't need a third-party antivirus. As long as you keep your system up to date and practice safe browsing habits, Windows 11's built-in protections are enough to keep you safe online.

Windows Security provides everything you need

Microsoft Windows Security has come a long way. While it was once criticized, it has now become a robust security solution built into the operating system. Since Windows 10, it has evolved into a comprehensive suite that combines Microsoft Defender Antivirus, Windows Firewall, and Smart App Control to block potentially dangerous files and threats. Here's what the security suite includes:

1. Virus & threat protection : Detects traditional and behavioral malware with manual scanning options.
2. Firewall & network protection : Control network traffic and block unauthorized connections.
3. App & browser control : Includes SmartScreen filter to block malicious websites and downloads.
4. Device security : Manages hardware security features such as secure boot and core isolation.
5. Account protection : Manage login options and monitor account security.
6. Device performance & health : Shows a quick overview of device health and potential issues.

But how does it actually perform? In AV-TEST's January and February 2025 assessments, Microsoft Defender Antivirus scored a perfect 6.0 across all categories - protection, performance, and usability. This means excellent protection against advanced malware attacks, including web and email threats, minimal system impact from 1% for file downloads and copying to 23% for launching websites, with no false positives.

Windows Security works silently in the background, automatically updating virus and threat definitions without interruption. In our experience, it is impressively resource-efficient. Even with active background scanning, CPU usage is only 11% to 14%, with no noticeable impact on system performance.

Edge users can benefit from the built-in SmartScreen filter, which proactively scans websites and downloads for anything suspicious before it reaches their computer. Even if you're using Chrome, Firefox, or Opera, Microsoft still has you covered with Network Protection. However, you'll see a system alert instead of a browser alert. Plus, all of these modern browsers have built-in security features of their own, so you're protected no matter which browser you use.

While it may seem familiar, don't confuse Windows Security with Microsoft Defender, which is now a standalone app and part of the Microsoft 365 suite. This separate service offers additional features like VPN and identity monitoring, acting as a centralized dashboard to view and monitor all the devices connected to your account.

The best security measures that can beat any antivirus

Even the best antivirus software won't protect you if you don't follow basic security practices. By following common sense guidelines, you can significantly improve your online security. For example, don't download unknown or suspicious attachments, and avoid downloading pirated software or movies from unknown sources, which are often filled with pop-ups and automatic redirects.

Keeping your system up to date with the latest Windows updates is the most important security measure you can take to protect your system. Many successful attacks exploit vulnerabilities that were patched months or even years ago. The same logic applies to your browser and applications. Those update notifications may be annoying, but they often include important security fixes.

Another security weakness for many people is passwords. Instead of reusing the same password for all your important accounts, use complex, unique passwords. Consider using one of the best password managers to take the hassle out of creating and remembering strong passwords for multiple accounts.

Third-party antivirus software has its own problems.

Third-party security tools aren't without their value, and depending on the provider, they can offer some useful features. Some, like Avast, offer webcam monitoring to alert you to suspicious access attempts. Most premium security suites now include identity theft protection and password leak monitoring, which scans the dark corners of the internet for your compromised data.

Extensive parental controls and built-in VPN protection are valuable features that add layers of security beyond what's available in Windows Security. More importantly, third-party antivirus software can give you a second opinion on the overall health of your system. However, it's worth noting that Windows automatically disables built-in security features when it detects a third-party security application is installed.

However, these extra features can easily bloat your computer and affect system performance. Free third-party antivirus software often acts as a marketing channel for their premium services, with constant upgrade prompts and privacy concerns about collecting user data, leading to a poor user experience.

Many people have stopped using any third-party antivirus software in recent years, at least not on their personal computers. This decision stems from disciplined security practices and how well the built-in Windows Security solution has improved over the years.

Ultimately, the choice is yours. If you need the extra features that third-party antivirus software offers, then the premium version may be worth it. However, for most of us who regularly update our systems and avoid unsafe digital activities, the built-in Windows Security provides more than enough protection for everyday use.

Kareem Winters

Update 26 May 2025