Windows Defender (Beta 2) is a security technology that helps protect Windows you from spyware and other potentially unwanted software. Using Microsoft Windows Defender, known spyware on your system will be detected and removed.

This helps reduce negative effects caused by spyware, including slow computer performance, annoying pop-up ads, unwanted changes to Internet settings, and unauthorized use of your private information.

This enhanced protection improves Internet browsing safety by helping to guard the places where spyware can enter your computer.

Windows Defender (Beta 2) is the name of the next beta version of Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware. It includes several enhancements that are based on customer input.

Changes include, but are not limited to:
· Improved detection and removal. Windows Defender (Beta 2) can detect and remove more threats posed by spyware and other potentially unwanted software. Real-Time Protection, which helps prevent unwanted software from being installed, is enhanced to better monitor key points in the operating system for changes. These features help you stay productive because they help to prevent pop-ups and the performance degradation that is caused by spyware and other potentially unwanted software.
· Redesigned and simplified user interface. The Windows Defender (Beta 2) user interface has been redesigned to make it easer to scan your computer and remove unwanted files. The new interface also delivers a warning system that alerts you to the severity of a threat and makes appropriate recommendations to help secure your computer. This new design gives you more control over the software on your computer and minimizes interruptions to your work.
· Protection features for all users. Windows Defender (Beta 2) can now be run by all the users who use a particular computer, whether they have administrator-level privileges or not. This helps ensure that all the people who use a computer are able to benefit from the protection features offered by Windows Defender (Beta 2).
· Definition updates delivered through Automatic Updates. Windows Defender (Beta 2) now receives updates through Automatic Updates. Provided by Microsoft analysts, these updates help keep you protected from the latest threats at no additional cost.
· Voting network statistics. When Windows Defender (Beta 2) detects potentially unwanted software, it shows you how customers who participate in the opt-in network voted to classify the software. This helps provide you with more information even before Microsoft analysts evaluate the software.


Note: Windows Defender no longer supports Windows 2000 as it went out of mainstream support in June 2005. Please refer to the support lifecycle website for more information.

Requirements:

· Personal computer with an Intel Pentium 233-megahertz (MHz) or higher processor; Pentium III recommended.
· 64 megabytes (MB) of RAM (minimum); 128 MB RAM (recommended).
· 20 MB of available hard disk space.
· Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or later.
· Internet access with at least a 28.8 Kbps connection.
· Windows Installer version 3.1 or higher.