What is Microsoft Defender and Why Do You Need It for Your Business?

Whether your organization is a small or medium-sized business (SMB) or a large enterprise, Microsoft Defender is a robust and cost-effective anti-malware option that’s available in multiple versions to address a variety of cybersecurity needs and requirements. The advanced threat protection (ATP)-grade software capably prevents, detects and responds to attacks across a wealth of targets, including smartphones, desktops, laptops and tablets, servers, users and identities, applications and programs, email and attachments, files and data and cloud environments.

Explore the Different Microsoft Defender Options

Many businesses, while familiar with the Microsoft Defender Antivirus app that was included with Windows 10, are surprised to discover there are now numerous and varied Microsoft Defender options, including:

• Microsoft Defender – Designed for individuals and families and included with Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions, the basic but capable Microsoft Defender app provides an online dashboard to assist monitoring computers, review corresponding alerts, provide security recommendations and aid protecting user identities, data and devices—including Android, macOS, iOS and Windows systems—from common threats. 
• Microsoft Defender for Business – With time-saving setup wizards, comprehensive security policies and robust cyberthreat prevention, protection and response features, Microsoft Defender for Business offers organizations a cost-effective solution that can be bundled with other Microsoft 365 services and that includes endpoint protection for Windows and Linux servers. 
• Microsoft 365 Defender – Designed to integrate well within broader Microsoft 365 services environments, Microsoft 365 Defender enhances security operations within larger firms by adding extended detection and response (XDR) technology, expanded endpoint visibility, phishing and business email compromise protection, cross-domain attack prevention and automated mitigation and recovery capabilities. 
• Microsoft Defender for Cloud – Designed to assist organizations in securing multicloud and hybrid environments, Microsoft Defender for Cloud reduces effort required to manage cybersecurity administration while also preventing, detecting and rapidly responding to threats and unifying security management initiatives (including within development environments). 
• Microsoft Defender for Endpoint – Larger organizations running multiple platforms and solutions will find Microsoft Defender for Endpoint a scalable option, as this Defender iteration and cloud-based solution protects Windows, macOS, iOS, Android and Linux systems from ransomware threats with its automated investigation and remediation routines, endpoint detection and response capabilities and next generation advanced threat management technologies. 
• Microsoft Defender for Identity – Aimed at reducing larger organizations’ attack surfaces, Microsoft Defender for Identity boasts real-time identity risk detection while also correlating alerts with Microsoft 365 Defender activity to help firms respond intelligently to threats (including with robust automated responses). 
• Microsoft Defender for Office 365 – With its focus on email and Microsoft Teams collaboration safeguards, Microsoft Defender for Office 365 provides advanced threat protection against phishing, business email compromise, ransomware and similar threats thanks to its artificial intelligence-powered automated XDR features. 
• Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps – Designed to assist organizations in securing Software as a Service (SaaS) apps, Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps simplifies tracking, managing and securing a variety of SaaS programs and managing and administering the ways in which these apps access and interact with one another. 
• Microsoft Defender for IoT – Targeting the myriad devices often connected to corporate networks, Microsoft Defender for IoT aids generating real-time alerts, managing threats and protecting industrial infrastructure. 
• Microsoft Defender Vulnerability Management – Touting a risk-based approach to vulnerability management, Microsoft Defender Vulnerability Management aids larger firms in reducing and prioritizing the risks, as well as mitigating and recovering from events, that typically plague cloud-based processes, workflows and systems. 

The need for these different Microsoft Defender cybersecurity options varies depending upon each organization’s requirements. Firms’ size, industry, location and systems all impact determining which solution within Microsoft’s Defender lineup proves most beneficial. 

Which Microsoft Defender Solution Is Right for Your Business?

For many SMBs, Microsoft Defender for Business is the ideal choice, providing strong protection with a simple setup, automated investigation features, and excellent visibility into emerging threats. It’s also affordable and easy to manage, with licenses covering up to five devices per user.

Another popular choice for SMBs is Microsoft 365 Business Premium, which bundles Microsoft Defender with essential tools like Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and 1TB of OneDrive storage, all at an affordable rate. This plan supports multiple platforms, ensuring your organization’s security across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more.

For organizations that need advanced protection, Microsoft 365 Defender and Microsoft Defender for Office 365 offer enhanced security features like XDR, AI-powered protection, and automated workflows that prevent attacks before they cause harm.

Need Assistance with Microsoft Defender for Your Business?

Navigating Microsoft 365 and Defender can be confusing, especially for SMBs outside the tech industry. Louisville Geek is here to help. Our team can evaluate your current setup, identify the best Microsoft Defender solution for your business, and assist with seamless integration. Contact us today to learn how we can secure your business with Microsoft Defender.