Microsoft Defender

[debgrogg]

I just received an email about Microsoft Defender and it being included with my Microsoft 365 Subscription.  Is it compatible with my Avast subscription (Premium Security and Cleanup)?  And does it do anything more than what the Avast subscription does?

[DavidR]

It is never wise to have two active antiviruses installed and active at the same time.  A bit like two dogs fighting over one bone.

I don't know what is going on with this email as Microsoft Defender is already a part of Windows.  However if you install another antivirus, windows disables Microsoft Defender to prevent conflict.

[bob3160]

Windows Security is built into Windows and deactivates when any other third party AV gets installed.
Windows Defender is a separate product that can be purchase from Microsoft.
It's free if you have a Microsoft 365 subscription. It is an Antivirus product marketed by Microsoft.