Why verify it
Microsoft Defender is the built-in protection of Windows. If another antivirus replaces it, or a malicious program or a botched tweak turns it off, you may not notice, because the computer keeps working as usual.
The check, step by step
Item names may differ slightly between Windows 11 versions.
- Open the Windows Security app (search for it in the Start menu).
- On the home screen check that none of the items have yellow or red warnings.
- Under Virus & threat protection choose Manage settings.
- Verify that Real-time protection and Tamper Protection are on.
- Under Virus & threat protection check when the last scan ran and whether updates are available.
If you use another antivirus
If you have another antivirus installed, Windows Defender usually limits itself so the two programs do not interfere. That is fine. Just make sure at least one active protection is running.
What BirdGuard watches
BirdGuard does not replace Defender, it complements it. It watches changes to its settings, alerts you when something important changes and offers a reversible fix.