Is Windows Defender Safe?
Windows Defender — Nerq Trust Score 65.2/100 (B- grade). Based on analysis of 2 trust dimensions, it is generally safe but has some concerns. Last updated: 2026-07-22.
Use Windows Defender with some caution. Windows Defender is a antivirus software (now comparable to paid solutions) with a Nerq Trust Score of 65.2/100 (B-), based on 3 independent data dimensions. Below the recommended threshold of 70. Security: 90/100. Popularity: 100/100. Data sourced from multiple public sources including package registries, GitHub, NVD, OSV.dev, and OpenSSF Scorecard. Last updated: 2026-04-02. Machine-readable data (JSON).
Is Windows Defender safe?
CAUTION — Windows Defender has a Nerq Trust Score of 65.2/100 (B-). It has moderate trust signals but shows some areas of concern that warrant attention. Suitable for development use — review security and maintenance signals before production deployment.
What is Windows Defender's trust score?
Windows Defender has a Nerq Trust Score of 65.2/100, earning a B- grade. This score is based on 2 independently measured dimensions including security, maintenance, and community adoption.
What are the key security findings for Windows Defender?
Windows Defender's strongest signal is popularity at 100/100. No known vulnerabilities have been detected. It has not yet reached the Nerq Verified threshold of 70+.
What is Windows Defender and who maintains it?
| Author | Unknown |
| Category | Antivirus |
| Source | N/A |
Antivirus Assessment
Independent Lab Results (AV-TEST)
Windows Defender scored 6.0/6 on protection and 5.5/6 on performance in AV-TEST independent testing. Perfect protection score. Slightly higher system impact than top performers.
Security Track Record
Windows Defender has no known major security incidents or privacy scandals.
Build Your Security Stack
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Windows Defender Across Platforms
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Safety Guide: Windows Defender
What is Windows Defender?
Windows Defender is a antivirus software — Microsoft Defender (formerly Windows Defender) is the built-in antivirus for Windows 10 and 11. Free, no installation required, auto-updates via Windows Update. AV-TEST score: 6/6 protection, 5.5/6 pe.
How to Verify Safety
Check AV-TEST lab results. Review incident history and privacy policy.
You can also check the trust score via API: GET /v1/preflight?target=Windows Defender
Key Safety Concerns for antivirus software
When evaluating any antivirus software, watch for: detection rate, system impact, privacy practices, jurisdiction.
Trust Assessment
Windows Defender has a Nerq Trust Score of 65/100 (B-) and has not yet reached Nerq trust threshold (70+). This score is based on automated analysis of security, maintenance, community, and quality signals.
Key Takeaways
- Windows Defender has a Trust Score of 65/100 (B-).
- Review carefully before use — below trust threshold.
- Always verify independently using the Nerq API.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Windows Defender Safe?
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Disclaimer: Nerq trust scores are automated assessments based on publicly available signals. They are not endorsements or guarantees. Always conduct your own due diligence.