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Microsoft Security

Can I use Microsoft Security Essentials with Windows 8?

A reader writes:

Can I use Microsoft Security Essentials with Windows 8?

No—but you don’t need to. Windows 8 includes Windows Defender, a program that provides enhanced protection against viruses and spyware.

Learn more about Windows 8

If your computer is running Windows 7, Windows Vista, or Windows XP, we recommend downloading Microsoft Security Essentials or another antivirus program. Microsoft Security Essentials is a free* product that helps protect your computer against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.

Download Microsoft Security Essentials

* Internet access fees may apply while you are downloading the software. To install Microsoft Security Essentials, you must be running genuine Windows on your computer.