Difference Between Microsoft 365 Defender Platform, Engine, and Security Intelligence Versions
Question details
The user wants to understand the differences between the platform version, antivirus engine version, and security intelligence version in Microsoft 365 Defender.
- Product
- Microsoft 365 Defender
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Reviewing security software details or troubleshooting Microsoft 365 Defender update issues.
- Observed behavior
- Seeking clarification on what each version label signifies within the Defender ecosystem to better identify potential security issues.
Ensure you have access to your Windows Security settings or the Microsoft 365 Defender portal to view your current version numbers.
Identify and Differentiate Microsoft Defender Components
Use the Windows Security interface to locate your version numbers and understand what each component does.
Microsoft Defender uses different version numbers for its various components because they update on different schedules. Understanding these components helps in verifying that your system is fully protected against the latest threats.
Click the Start menu, type 'Windows Security', and open the application. Alternatively, click the shield icon in your system tray.
Click on the 'Settings' gear icon at the bottom left of the Windows Security window, then click on 'About'.
Look for the 'Antimalware Client Version'. This is the platform version, which identifies the core Defender software platform providing the baseline environment for security features.
Check the 'Engine Version'. This represents the antivirus scanning engine responsible for executing the malware detection and remediation logic.
Look for the 'Antivirus version' or 'Security intelligence version'. This identifies your current malware and threat definitions, which update frequently to block new threats.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How often does the security intelligence version update?
Security intelligence updates (formerly known as definition updates) are typically released multiple times a day to ensure your device is protected against the latest known malware and threats.
Why is my antivirus engine version different from the platform version?
The engine and platform are updated on completely different schedules. The platform receives less frequent, broader updates for new features, while the scanning engine receives specific detection logic updates more regularly.
How do I force Microsoft Defender to update its security intelligence version?
Open Windows Security, click on 'Virus & threat protection', scroll down to 'Virus & threat protection updates', and click 'Protection updates'. Then, click the 'Check for updates' button.
