Microsoft Defender, along with other Microsoft tools, can serve as a powerful first line of defense against cyber threats for associations. Built into the Windows operating system, Windows Defender provides real-time protection from viruses, malware, and other cybersecurity threats. For organizations that utilize Microsoft Office 365, tools like Microsoft Defender for Office 365 can add additional layers of protection, particularly against phishing and ransomware.

To maximize the effectiveness of these tools, associations should ensure their systems are regularly updated. Additionally, employing best practices such as enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) and regularly reviewing access logs through Microsoft tools can add robust protection against potential breaches.

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