CrowdStrike vs Microsoft Defender

August 06, 2023 | Author: Michael Stromann
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CrowdStrike
CrowdStrike's cloud-native endpoint security platform combines Next-Gen Av, EDR, Threat Intelligence, Threat Hunting, and much more.
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Microsoft Defender
Microsoft Defender is working to protect your Windows 10 PC by scanning for malicious software. Microsoft Defender uses real-time protection to scan everything you download or run on your PC. It will turn itself off if you install another antivirus app.
CrowdStrike and Microsoft Defender are two prominent cybersecurity solutions with distinct approaches and features.

CrowdStrike is renowned for its cloud-native endpoint protection platform (EPP) that combines next-generation antivirus (NGAV), endpoint detection and response (EDR), and threat intelligence. It utilizes machine learning and behavioral analysis to identify and block sophisticated threats, and its cloud-based architecture allows for real-time threat hunting and response across a globally distributed environment.

Microsoft Defender, formerly known as Windows Defender, is a comprehensive security suite offered by Microsoft. It includes antivirus, anti-malware, firewall, and other security features built into the Windows operating system. Microsoft Defender benefits from deep integration with the Windows ecosystem, leveraging telemetry data and machine learning algorithms to provide effective protection against a wide range of threats.

See also: Top 10 Antivirus Software
CrowdStrike vs Microsoft Defender in our news:

2023. CrowdStrike acquires Bionic.ai for $350M



CrowdStrike has acquired Bionic.ai — a security posture management platform for cloud services — for $350 million. Bionic.ai's primary function is to provide security teams with a comprehensive overview of a company's technology and IT landscape, helping them identify vulnerabilities. It's worth noting that Bionic.ai's annual recurring revenue (ARR) was below $10 million, a pivotal metric in the Software as a Service (SaaS) sector for assessing business performance. CrowdStrike primarily focuses on services related to endpoint security, threat intelligence, breach response, and it already offers its own security posture management service under the brand "Falcon." The acquisition of Bionic.ai is expected to provide CrowdStrike with an enhanced level of visibility and observability for security operations teams.


2021. Microsoft launches Defender for Business



Microsoft has unveiled Microsoft Defender for Business, an innovative and affordable endpoint security solution designed specifically to cater to businesses employing up to 300 individuals. This new offering from Microsoft enhances security measures beyond traditional antivirus systems by providing next-generation protection, endpoint detection and response capabilities, threat and vulnerability management, and more. With simplified configuration and management, along with intelligent and automated investigation and remediation, Defender for Business ensures robust security. It safeguards against a range of cybersecurity threats, including malware and ransomware, across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. Available as a standalone solution, it can be obtained for a cost of $3 per user per month.


2021. CrowdStrike acquires logging startup Humio for $400M



CrowdStrike, an enterprise-focused cloud-native cybersecurity company specializing in endpoint protection and threat intelligence, has revealed its intention to acquire Humio, a log analysis and observability startup based in the United Kingdom. The deal, primarily conducted through cash transactions, is estimated to be valued at around $400 million. Humio gained recognition in the realm of cloud log-management and observability since its establishment in 2016 in London. The company has distinguished itself through its innate capability to ingest and analyze both unstructured and semi-structured data. Backed by investors like Accel and Dell, Humio has secured over $30 million in funding, while serving prominent customers such as Microsoft and Bloomberg.


2019. Microsoft Defender comes to Mac



Microsoft Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) will be available for Mac as well. Previously, it served as a Windows solution designed to safeguard the machines of Microsoft 365 subscribers and the assets managed by IT administrators. Formerly known as Windows Defender ATP, Microsoft has decided to drop the "Windows Defender" name since it is now accessible on Mac. Many enterprises utilize a combination of Windows and Mac machines and already equip their employees with Office. By having a security solution that covers both systems, IT departments can significantly simplify their operations, as managing security vulnerabilities on a single system is challenging enough as it is.


2016. Microsoft released Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection


WDATP is a cloud service offered by Windows Defender, the built-in antivirus in Windows. Currently, Windows Defender primarily focuses on scanning websites and downloads to prevent hacking attempts. However, in the era of social engineering and spear-phishing, antivirus software needs to adopt a more proactive approach. Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (WDATP) aims to address this by shifting its attention from monitoring individual files to observing the overall behavior of a machine. Instead of simply searching for specific viruses, WDATP keeps a close watch on symptoms that indicate potential threats. For instance, if a machine starts establishing connections with unusual ports or executing uncommon PowerShell commands—behavior that deviates from the norm for most users—WDAPT alerts administrators. It provides them with an overview of both current and historical machine behavior for further analysis. Moreover, Microsoft is capitalizing on the extensive Windows user base to jumpstart its antivirus program. By analyzing millions of suspicious files from machines worldwide in the cloud, a vast centralized database is being constructed, encompassing not only malicious files but also malicious behavior.

Author: Michael Stromann
Michael is an expert in IT Service Management, IT Security and software development. With his extensive experience as a software developer and active involvement in multiple ERP implementation projects, Michael brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his writings. Having previously worked at SAP, he has honed his expertise and gained a deep understanding of software development and implementation processes. Currently, as a freelance developer, Michael continues to contribute to the IT community by sharing his insights through guest articles published on several IT portals. You can contact Michael by email stromann@liventerprise.com