Hey, could you clarify the windows 7 story please?
I'm running Microsoft security essentials out of the box on my 2 Windows 7 systems. It includes virus and spyware definitions. How is this different from Windows Defender?
I think that is exactly the clarification I was making in my multiple posts in this thread. The answer to your final question depends on whether you are comparing to Defender that is included with Win 7 or with Win 8/10.
If you rather read the same info direct from Microsoft, refer to:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/14210/security-essentials-downloadQuotes from Microsoft site:
"Windows Defender for Windows 8, Windows RT, Windows 8.1, Windows RT 8.1, and Windows 10 provides built-in protection against malware. You can't use Microsoft Security Essentials, but you don't need to—Windows Defender is already included and ready to go."
"If you’re looking to protect a PC with an older version of running Windows 7, you can use Microsoft Security Essentials to provide comprehensive malware protection that will help guard against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. It provides free* real-time protection for your home or small business PCs."
"Windows Defender is also available in Windows 7. However, in Windows 7, Defender only provides protection against spyware. In the Windows 8, Windows RT, Windows 8.1, Windows RT 8.1, and Windows 10, Windows Defender provides full malware protection for your PC. Malware consists of viruses, spyware, and other potentially unwanted software."
Also, some people should note the licensing terms of Microsoft Security Essentials, which differ from Defender.
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/13752Licensing Terms of MSSEQuotes from Microsoft site:
"Home Use. If you are a home user, then you may install and use any number of copies of the software on your personal devices for use by people who reside in your household."
"Small Business. If you operate a small business, then you may install and use the software on up to ten (10) devices in your business."
"Restrictions. The software may not be used on devices owned by government or academic institutions."