What is Microsoft Security Essentials?

What You Need to Know

This article is in the form of an FAQ to easily assist the reader in deciding whether or not to use Microsoft Security Essentials.

What is Microsoft Security Essentials?

Microsoft Security Essentials is a free and currently available product that is supposed to provide protection from virus, spyware and other types of malware threats. It is meant to replace other anti-virus and spyware/malware software protection programs from third parties.

What Operating Systems Can Use It?

Security Essentials works for Windows XP Service Pack 2 and higher, Windows Vista and Windows 7.

What Should I Do Before I Get Microsoft Security Essentials?

Read the guide review about Security Essentials.

How Do I Get Microsoft Security Essentials?

You can download Microsoft Security Essentials on Microsoft’s site, but first read the previous question/answer.

Does Microsoft Security Essentials Replace My Current Anti-Virus Software?

No. Keep your current anti-virus software until you are satisfied with the performance of Security Essentials.

Does Security Essentials Replace Windows Defender?

No, but it does disable it.

What Do I Do If Security Essentials Causes Problems That I Cannot Fix on My Computer?

If uninstalling Security Essentials does not fix the problems you are experiencing, restore your computer's functionality using a restore point created before you installed Security Essentials.