Windows Security shows which antivirus provider is protecting a Windows 11 PC. Open Windows Security, choose Virus & threat protection, and review the security-provider information.
Check your antivirus provider
- Open Start and search for Windows Security.
- Open the app.
- Select Virus & threat protection.
- Review the provider or protection information shown on the page.
- Open the provider-management section if you need more detail about registered antivirus products.
Microsoft Defender may be the active antivirus
Windows 11 includes Microsoft Defender Antivirus. When a compatible third-party antivirus is installed and registered correctly, Windows can adjust Defender’s role to avoid two real-time antivirus products conflicting.
Do not assume two antivirus products mean twice the protection
Running multiple real-time security suites can create performance and compatibility problems. Use Windows Security to verify which product is actually active rather than installing another antivirus simply because you cannot find an icon.
If protection appears disabled
Update Windows, restart the PC, and open the installed security product. On a work or school computer, security settings can be managed by the organization and may not be changeable by the user.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.