Microsoft Security Essentials Windows 10 is the Windows 10 version of anti-virus software that is pre-installed on PCs to provide protection against various types of malicious software.

This malicious malware may include spyware, trojan horses, computer viruses and rootkits.  

Microsoft Security Essentials automatically checks and downloads the latest virus definitions from Microsoft security essentials Update.  

Microsoft continuously updates its security intelligence in antimalware products to accommodate the latest threats.

They constantly make changes to its detection logic, enhancing the ability of Windows Defender Antivirus and other Microsoft antimalware solutions to accurately identify threats.  

This security intelligence is integrated with cloud-based protection to deliver fast and powerful AI-enhanced, next-generation protection. 

Where is Microsoft Security Essentials Windows 10 on my PC? 

If you are a Windows 10 user, you can’t access Security Essentials. This is because you have no need for it.

Windows 10 already has Windows Security or Windows Defender which provides the same level of protection. 

How to Turn on or off Microsoft Security Essentials Windows 10

If you are using your Windows 10 for the first time, the antivirus protection that comes installed on the PC is your default security app.

However, Windows Security comes pre-installed and ready for use at any time. 

You can uninstall all the other security programs on your PC and Widows Defender will automatically turn on.

Alternatively, you may follow the few steps below to activate Windows Security 

• In Start, open Control Panel. 

• Open Administrative Tools > Edit group policy. This will open the Local Group Policy Editor in a new window. 

• Open Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Defender Antivirus. The setting Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus is underneath the folders of other settings. 

• Open Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus and make sure it’s set to Disabled or Not configured. 

You may have to restart the device for proper functionality. 

You may also read >> Best Screen Recording App for Android

Microsoft Security Essentials Windows 10 Automatic Updates 

To make sure your anti-malware solution detects the latest threats, you may have to set it up to get updates automatically as part of your Windows Update.

Follow the steps below to set up an automatic update: 

• In Start, open Control Panel. 

• Open Administrative Tools > Edit group policy. This will open the Local Group Policy Editor in a new window. 

• Open Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Defender Security Center > Virus and threat protection. 

• Open the setting Virus and threat protection area and set it to Disabled. 

Check device Updates 

You can always check to see if your antivirus definition is up to date and make sure your device has current protection against malicious software

You can do this by going to Start and searching for Windows Defender Security Center.

Select Protection updates and Check for updates