Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Windows Security VS Malwarebytes

Compare Windows Security VS Malwarebytes and see what are their differences

Windows Security logo Windows Security

Windows 10 security delivers built-in & ongoing protections you can trust: Windows Defender Antivirus, firewall, family settings, ransomware protection, real-time protection & more. Stay up to date & protected at no extra cost.

Malwarebytes logo Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes protects you against malware, ransomware, and other advanced online threats that have made antivirus obsolete and ineffective. Free Anti-Malware & Malware .
  • Windows Security Landing page
    Landing page //
    2024-11-05
  • Malwarebytes Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-22

Windows Security features and specs

  • Built-in Protection
    Windows Defender is integrated directly into Windows 10 and 11, meaning there is no need for an additional download or installation. This integration ensures that users are protected right out of the box.
  • Real-Time Protection
    It offers continuous monitoring and real-time threat protection, which helps in identifying and mitigating potential threats as they occur.
  • Cost
    Windows Defender is free to use for Windows users, making it an economical choice compared to many third-party antivirus solutions that may require a subscription fee.
  • Minimal Performance Impact
    Windows Defender is optimized to work seamlessly with Windows, resulting in minimal system performance impact compared to some other antivirus software.
  • Automatic Updates
    It regularly receives updates via Windows Update, ensuring that it has the latest virus definitions and security improvements.
  • Integration with Windows Security
    It is part of the Windows Security suite, which includes firewall, system health features, and parental controls, offering a more comprehensive security package.

Possible disadvantages of Windows Security

  • Advanced Threat Detection
    While Windows Defender is competent in general threat detection, it may not be as effective as some specialized third-party antivirus solutions in identifying highly sophisticated or zero-day threats.
  • Features and Customization
    Compared to premium antivirus software, Windows Defender may lack some advanced features, such as detailed scanning options, firewall controls, and network security tools that some users might find essential.
  • False Positives
    There have been instances where Windows Defender has flagged legitimate software or files as threats, which can be inconvenient for users who have to manually whitelist these items.
  • No Multi-OS Support
    Windows Defender is exclusive to Windows operating systems, meaning users running multiple OS environments (e.g., macOS, Linux) would need to look for other security solutions.
  • User Interface
    For some users, the interface might seem less intuitive or less user-friendly compared to other antivirus software, which often have more polished and easier-to-navigate designs.
  • Lack of Dedicated Customer Support
    Unlike many paid antivirus solutions that offer dedicated customer support and technical assistance, users of Windows Defender primarily rely on Microsoft's general support channels and community forums.

Malwarebytes features and specs

  • Effective Malware Detection
    Malwarebytes is known for its robust malware detection capabilities. It employs advanced algorithms and heuristics to identify and remove various types of malware, including viruses, trojans, worms, and ransomware.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The software has an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible for both technical and non-technical users.
  • Real-Time Protection
    Offers real-time protection against emerging threats by constantly monitoring your system for malicious activity.
  • Lightweight Performance
    Malwarebytes is designed to run efficiently in the background without significantly impacting system performance.
  • Frequent Updates
    The software receives regular updates to its malware definitions and features, ensuring it can tackle the latest threats.
  • Free Version Available
    Malwarebytes offers a free version that provides essential malware removal capabilities, making it accessible for individuals who may not want to invest in a paid antivirus solution.

Possible disadvantages of Malwarebytes

  • Limited Features in Free Version
    The free version lacks real-time protection and some advanced features, which are only available in the paid version.
  • Higher Cost
    The premium version can be relatively expensive compared to other antivirus solutions that offer similar levels of protection.
  • No Firewall
    Malwarebytes does not include a built-in firewall, which is a standard feature in many other comprehensive security suites.
  • Occasional False Positives
    There are reports of false positives, where legitimate software is incorrectly flagged as malicious, which could lead to unnecessary disruptions.
  • Resource Usage During Scans
    While lightweight during normal operation, the software can be resource-intensive during comprehensive system scans, potentially slowing down other activities on the computer.
  • No Email Protection
    Malwarebytes lacks integrated email protection features, which are critical for users who want comprehensive protection against phishing and email-based threats.

Windows Security videos

Windows Defender Antivirus HONEST REVIEW

More videos:

  • Review - Windows Defender Antivirus Test & Review 2020 - Antivirus Security Review - High Level Test
  • Review - Is Windows Defender Good Enough in 2020?

Malwarebytes videos

Malwarebytes 4.1 Test vs Malware

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Windows Security and Malwarebytes)
Security & Privacy
40 40%
60% 60
Cyber Security
40 40%
60% 60
Antivirus
47 47%
53% 53
Monitoring Tools
23 23%
77% 77

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Windows Security and Malwarebytes

Windows Security Reviews

Best firewall software of 2024
Known as Windows Defender since the release of Windows 10, the firewall is part of a suite of security tools included by default with Windows installations. Microsoft recommends that you leave the Defender on, even if you’re also using another firewall.
The best antivirus software 2022: Free antivirus and paid options tested
Microsoft's built-in antivirus software is now a heavy hitter. While Windows Defender, aka Microsoft Defender Antivirus, doesn't quite beat Norton or Kaspersky in malware-protection lab tests, it comes out ahead of Avast, AVG and most other free antivirus products while operating almost entirely behind the scenes.
18 Best Avast Alternatives 2022 (Free Included)
Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus software developed by Microsoft for its Windows operating system. It provides protection against different types of malware such as computer viruses, spyware, rootkits, etc.
Windows Defender Alternatives – 5 Best Free Antivirus Tools!
However, users might need to use a Windows Defender alternative in some cases. Just like every other security suite, Windows defender also has some drawbacks. The biggest disadvantage of Windows defender is that it slows down your computer. Sometimes Windows defender also triggers BSOD error. Since Windows Defender is provided for free, one can’t expect robust security...
Source: techviral.net
Best Free Antivirus Software 2022
Windows Defender doesn't stop malware files from downloading from the internet unless you are using Microsoft Edge as your browser. For browsers like Chrome and Firefox, other antivirus programs include a browser extension that stops most threats before they have a chance to start the download process. These also block malicious websites. With Defender and Edge working...

Malwarebytes Reviews

10 Best FREE Anti Tracking Software In 2023 [TOP SELECTIVE]
Malwarebytes is also a renowned antivirus-based company that has successfully provided its users with adequate support against scammer pop-ups and ransomware attacks on the system. This tool offers various features, such as scheduled system scans, detailed analysis and forensic reports, and real-time ransomware protection.
13 best antivirus software platforms, per a cybersecurity expert
If you frequent the Internet often, you’ve likely heard of Malwarebytes Premium: an antivirus software for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Chrome, costing $40 per year for one device or $80 per year for up to five devices. It includes both antivirus protection and a browser guard, too.
Source: nypost.com
The best antivirus software 2022: Free antivirus and paid options tested
Malwarebytes Free, formerly called Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, is not antivirus software. Instead, it's a very useful malware-removal tool.
5 Best Free Antivirus For PC – Windows Defender Alternatives
Malwarebytes is antivirus software that can effectively detect viruses and other threats on your PC. This software is lightweight and the database of Malwarebytes is updated daily. This means it can detect recent threats and program malware. It has a free and premium version. The free version can scan your PC, but it does not offer real-time protection.
Source: techvaz.com
18 Best Avast Alternatives 2022 (Free Included)
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is a great anti-malware tool that can be used as an alternative to Avast.

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Malwarebytes seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 42 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Windows Security mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Windows Security yet. Tracking of Windows Security recommendations started around Mar 2021.

Malwarebytes mentions (42)

  • Was I hacked?
    You can also check for malware using malwarebytes.com for free. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Ready, set…
    Run malwarebytes.com on all your devices. It doesn't catch everything, but it's free and pretty solid. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Command prompt opens 5-10 mins after I turn on my pc
    Github is a legitimate website owned by microsoft, used for publishing the source code of open source programs. They do have a desktop client, however if you did not install it, it could be malware pretending to be it. Run a malwarebytes scan, and check Autoruns. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • How can I check if I have been infected? Already opened file.
    Try run: - Sophos Scan and Clean https://www.sophos.com/it-it/free-tools/virus-removal-tool/free-download - Norton Power Eraser https://support.norton.com/sp/it/it/home/current/solutions/kb20100824120155EN - RogueKiller (click "other downloads" and 'Portable", after running go "Settings", "Scan Settings", and turn on "MalPE Module (BETA)", then u can run the full scan) https://www.adlice.com/roguekiller/ -... Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Hacked Mac?
    It’ll be easier for you to check via MalwareBytes (the Apple recommended anti malware software) than via me through Reddit (lol), so I’d suggest you install it, can be downloaded here https://malwarebytes.com - run a scan after you’ve installed it. Source: about 2 years ago
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Windows Security and Malwarebytes, you can also consider the following products

Kaspersky AntiVirus - Download the best FREE antivirus for Windows-based desktops, laptops, & tablets and get the core protection against viruses, spyware, phishing & dangerous websites.

Spybot - Search & Destroy - Spybot Search & Destroy is an anti-malware, adware and antivirus program for safe removal of the threats from the PC and browser.

ESET NOD32 Antivirus - Best IT security solutions for your home and business devices. Try ESET antivirus and internet security solutions for Windows, Android, Mac or Linux OS.

AdwCleaner - AdwCleaner is a free removal tool for : Adware (ads softwares)

SUPERAntiSpyware - Superantispyware protects you against malware, ransomware, and spyware. Get started today with free trial and remove Spyware, Rootkits, Spyware, Adware, Worms, Parasite!

360 Total Security - 360 Total Security was created by Qihoo 360 Technology Co. Ltd. This Chinese-based company provides a number of software solutions for PC, mobile devices and online security. Read more about 360 Total Security.