How to start a scan for viruses or malware in Microsoft Defender
If you suspect that your device may have malware you should have Microsoft Defender run a scan. Here's how to do that on Windows, Mac, or Android.
Virus and Threat Protection in the Windows Security App
Learn how to use virus and threat protection options in Windows Security to scan your device for threats and view the results.
Scan an item with Windows Security - Microsoft Support
You'll be notified immediately if any threats are found. To scan specific files or folders, right-click a file or folder, select Show more options, and then select Scan with Microsoft Defender. When …
Stay Protected With the Windows Security App - Microsoft Support
It includes features such as Microsoft Defender Antivirus, Windows Firewall, and Smart App Control, which work together to provide real-time protection against viruses, malware, and …
Getting started with anti-malware in Microsoft Defender
If you're concerned and want to have Microsoft Defender run a scan right now, you can do that by going to the Device protection page from the Microsoft Defender dashboard.
Schedule a scan in Microsoft Defender Antivirus
Learn how to schedule a Windows Defender Antivirus scan at a time and frequency that you choose.
Troubleshoot problems with detecting and removing malware
Run Windows Update to apply any fixes and ensure you have the latest components. If Microsoft Defender Antivirus continually encounters errors during updates, try installing the latest …
Remove malware from your PC in Windows 8.1 or Windows 7
Here's how to use Windows Defender in Windows 8.1 or Microsoft Security Essentials in Windows 7 to scan your PC. Important: Before you use Windows Defender Offline or Microsoft Security …
How to troubleshoot an error when you run the Microsoft Safety …
During a scan, Microsoft Safety Scanner detects possible malicious software contained in a file archive, such as a .zip file. You should determine whether the file is malicious software and …
Remove specific prevalent malware with Windows Malicious …
Nov 11, 2025 · To manually run the tool multiple times a month, download the tool from the Download Center or by visiting the Microsoft Safety & Security Center website. For an online …