Microsoft bringing Defender to Linux desktops. Repeat: Microsoft bringing Defender to Linux desktops
The year of Corporate Compliance on the Linux desktop is here
Microsoft is expanding its cybersecurity offerings to Linux desktops by introducing Defender for Linux Workstations. This update builds upon the existing Defender for Endpoint solution, providing enterprise-level protection, detection, vulnerability management, and response capabilities for Linux workstations. Linux desktop users will benefit from Defender's anti-virus functionality, along with management tools for inventory, security settings, and device isolation.
The product is currently available in public preview and requires a standalone Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Plan 2 or Microsoft 365 E5 and E7 subscription. Support is based on the underlying Linux distribution and kernel version, including popular options such as RHEL, CentOS, Ubuntu LTS, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server, and Oracle Linux.
Although the release aims to provide broader Linux protection through familiar tools and processes, there may be some friction for end users as organizations gain visibility into their Linux workstations alongside their existing endpoint estate. Microsoft attributes the development of Defender for Linux to increasing developer usage and customer demand, as Linux adoption expands beyond the datacenter.
Written by urgent.news from The Register Science's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
