University Systems help centre
Install Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (MSDE): Windows 10/11
Supported for
These instructions are provided for self-managed computers and will require local administrator access to complete. They are not for computers supported by Desktop Support Services.
Note: If you have any other Antivirus product installed on your computer, it will need to be removed before you can install Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.
1. Download the MSDE installer from here.
2. Double click the WindowsDefenderATPOnboardingScript.zip to extract the zip archive.
3. Right-click on the .cmd file and select Run as administrator:
4. When prompted enter your administrator’s account name and password and you should see this window. Type Y and press return to install.
5. When the installation is complete, you should get confirmation that your computer is now onboarded to MSDE.
6. You will notice the Windows Defender shield icon in white or blue in your tray (in the bottom-right corner of your screen). The green checkmark means the product is up to date, and there are no outstanding security notifications or actions to take.
7. Installation is complete. MSDE is configured to update automatically and without user intervention. To confirm Defender for Endpoint is running, you can check that Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection Service / MsSense.exe is running using the Windows Task Manager.
* Note: MSDE or MDE, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is the same product as Microsoft Defender ATP.