Download the new version of Windows Defender
So you say that your New Year's resolution is to get rid of spyware and annoying pop-up windows? That's an easy one. Download Windows Defender, the antispyware software from Microsoft.
You did that already, but now you're getting a confusing "Windows Defender has expired" message?
You aren't the only one. We've heard from several people that the error messages were confusing.
Here's the story. Windows Defender Beta 2 expired on December 31, 2006. To stay protected, you need to download the final release of Windows Defender. It's the same spyware protection, with some noted improvements. The interface is easier to use and causes less interruptions to your work. Also, if you have a problem with Windows Defender, you can call our support line twice for free.
The product will never expire and it is still free.
For more information, see the Windows Defender home page.
To download the full version now, go directly to the Microsoft Download Center.
Make sure that you have the correct version
If you're not sure if you've downloaded the full version of Windows Defender, do the following:
1. Click the Start menu.
2. Point to All Programs.
3. Click Windows Defender.
4. Click the arrow next to the question mark.
5. Click About Windows Defender.
The window should say Windows Defender Version: 1.1.1592.0.
Still having trouble?
If you've uninstalled Windows Defender Beta 2 and you're still having trouble installing Windows Defender, try downloading and running the Windows Installer Cleanup Utility, which you can find here: Microsoft Help and Support.
Special note to Windows 2000 users
The full version of Windows Defender does not work on Windows 2000, and because Windows Defender Beta 2 expired, you can't use the beta version, either. Windows Defender is primarily for consumers, not for businesses.
Because Windows 2000 was a less-popular consumer operating system, we decided to focus more on Windows Vista, Windows XP, and Windows Server 2003. These operating systems with the latest service packs have significantly better security protection overall, which will also help to prevent spyware. We strongly encourage you to upgrade your operating system now.
