Antitrust Complaint Filed Against Microsoft
Kaspersky has filed a complaint with the European Union (EU) against Microsoft. The complaint claims Microsoft is putting up road blocks up against security companies from having the ability to compete on a level playing field. According to Bloomberg, Kaspersky believes Microsoft is driving up the cost of third-party security software due to the implementation of their own security solution, Windows Defender.
Kaspersky states,
“With the release of Windows 10, Microsoft started to create obstacles to competing manufacturers of security solutions, and introduce different ways of pushing users to forgo third-party software in favor of its own Windows Defender.”
The official complaint will result in the EU investigating if Microsoft hinders the ability for users to download third-party security protection on their devices. It will also determine if Microsoft reduces users’ level of protection after installing a third-party antivirus; as well as if Microsoft is giving vendors too little time to adapt products to Windows updates.
Windows Defender Protection — Superior Than Paid AVs?
Historically, Windows Defender protection did not even compare to that of paid security solutions. Although, this is no longer the case. PC Matic commissioned a malware detection test with AV Comparatives earlier this year. The results showed Windows Defender performed remarkably well, for a free solution. You are able to see the full test results here.
That being said, Kaspersky, PC Matic, and several other paid antivirus programs did perform better than Windows Defender. One can’t help but wonder — is this complaint coming because Windows Defender is performing well? The issue didn’t seem to present itself years ago when Defender was present but lacking proper performance.
Microsoft reported their primary objective is to keep people secure. Isn’t that what every security should company want?
Your Opinion
What do you think about Windows Defender? Do you like the idea of having a free security solution on your Windows devices? Have you ever encountered a problem while trying to install a third-party security solution because of Windows Defender? Drop your comments below.