Windows 8 and anti-virus software question

[Viva Las Vegas]

My wife just bought a laptop with Windows 8. I was gonna put Microsoft Security Essentials on it then realized it has it as Windows Defender. It has Norton AV pre-installed. Can I just un-install the Norton AV and be fine with Windows Defender, or should I add a good free AV program? Not sure why since I run MSE on Windows 7 and like it a lot. Just thought I'd ask as I know nothing about Windows 8 and would like to hear from some people on here who know a lot more than I do about this stuff. Thanks in advance.

 

[BigPopov]

I like MSE, I use it mostly on client systems who don't like to be asked questions or deal with popups.

I'm using AVG right now on my own PC but realistically there's not much difference.

 

[Draekon]

Windows Security Essentials was integrated into Windows Defender in Windows 8.

 

[MiNuN]

http://www.vipreantivirus.com/ is the best way to go

 

[Viva Las Vegas]

But my question is, do I need an anti virus in addition to Windows Defender? If yes, why? Thanks again.

 

[WindyCityGamer]

Uninstall Norton, that stuff is garbage.  Stick with Win Defender for both anti-virus and anti-spyware, it's quite good, and it's free (and it's far better than anything from Norton or Symantec).

 

[Number83]

But my question is, do I need an anti virus in addition to Windows Defender? If yes, why? Thanks again.

Nope...Windows Defender is your Anti-Virus.