Microsoft Defender is a comprehensive suite of advanced security solutions developed by Microsoft. It offers various tools and features to protect against different types of threats, including malware, viruses, ransomware, phishing attacks, and other malicious activities.
There are different components of Microsoft Defender that cater to specific security needs :
Microsoft Defender Antivirus : It provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and other malicious software. It employs robust scanning capabilities and behavioral analysis to detect and block threats.
Microsoft Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) : ATP is an advanced endpoint security solution that helps identify, investigate, and respond to advanced threats. It uses behavioral analytics, machine learning, and threat intelligence to detect and respond to sophisticated attacks.
Microsoft Defender for Identity (formerly Azure Advanced Threat Protection) : This component focuses on detecting and preventing identity-based attacks within an organization’s network. It monitors user activities, analyzes authentication data, and identifies suspicious behavior to mitigate risks related to compromised credentials.
Microsoft Defender for Office 365 : This component is designed to protect against threats in email, documents, and collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams and SharePoint. It includes features such as anti-phishing, anti-malware, and safe attachments to safeguard against email-based threats.
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint : This solution provides advanced threat protection for endpoints (computers, laptops, and servers). It combines threat and vulnerability management, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and proactive hunting capabilities to secure devices and respond to security incidents.
As for its inclusion in Microsoft 365 plans, it depends on the specific plan you have. Microsoft 365 E5 and Microsoft 365 E5 Security plans include Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Microsoft Defender for Office 365, and Microsoft Defender for Identity as part of their offerings. However, the availability of Microsoft Defender components may vary across different Microsoft 365 plans. It is recommended to refer to the specific plan details or consult Microsoft’s official documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the included security features.