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installing Microsoft Defender on macOS Monterey 12.7.6

Anonymous
2025-07-03T11:58:45+00:00

I have MacBook Air model (13-inch, 2017) macOS version (e.g., macOS Monterey 12.7.6).

I am trying to download Microsoft Defender for Cyber Essentials.

"Installing Microsoft Defender" https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/installing-microsoft-defender-ba7d17d7-464b-444d-bb47-990b7278369d says is macOS 10.14 for later.

However when I try to install, the Installer.pkg it says "Microsoft Defender can't be installed on this disk. Mac OS version 13 or later is required".

How can I install Microsoft Defender for macOS Monterey 12.7.6?

Microsoft 365 and Office | Microsoft 365 Defender | Other | MacOS

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  1. Ivan B 111.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-07-05T13:41:26+00:00

    Hi ,

    Did you manage to solve the problem?

    Independent Advisor - Community

    Thanks

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  2. Ivan B 111.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-07-03T13:54:49+00:00

    Hi ,

    I am Ivan, I will help you with this.

    I believe that the article in question may be outdated since Microsoft Defender for Endpoint has discontinued support. I could not find any other direct information about the version in question.

    https://learn.microsoft.com/pt-br/defender-endp...

    Give feedback if the information was useful or not.

    Independent Advisor - Community

    Thanks

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  3. Anonymous
    2025-07-03T12:35:19+00:00

    Hi Joe, 

    Thank you for reaching Microsoft Community 

    According to your detail, you're encountering a common issue when trying to install Microsoft Defender for Endpoint on macOS. While some Microsoft documentation might state macOS 10.14 or later, the current versions of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint for Mac actually require a more recent macOS version, specifically macOS 13 (Ventura) or later. 

    Your MacBook Air (13-inch, 2017) can only be upgraded to macOS Monterey (12.7.6), which is the latest supported version for that model. This is why the installer is giving you the "Mac OS version 13 or later is required" error. 

    Therefore, you cannot directly install the current version of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint on your MacBook Air running macOS Monterey 12.7.6. 

    You need to: 

    • Upgrade your Mac (if possible, but not for your model): If you had a newer MacBook Air that supported macOS Ventura (13) or Sonoma (14) or Sequoia (15), upgrading your macOS would be the solution. However, your 2017 MacBook Air is capped at Monterey.
    • Use an alternative security solution: Since you cannot install the current Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, you will need to find an alternative cybersecurity solution that is compatible with macOS Monterey 12.7.6. There are many reputable antivirus and endpoint protection solutions available that still support Monterey. You should research and choose one that meets your "Cyber Essentials" needs
    • Therefore, for your MacBook Air running macOS Monterey 12.7.6, you will need to look for an alternative security solution

    (You can visit this link for more information: What's new in Microsoft Defender for Endpoint on macOS - Microsoft Defender for Endpoint | Microsoft Learn ) 

    I am so sorry due to your device model isn't compatible with Microsoft Defender. We understand this may be frustrating. Thank you sincerely for taking the time to engage with us 

    Best regards,  

    Allison  - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist.

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