How do I run a virus scan?
Open your Windows Security settings. Select Virus & threat protection > Scan options. Select Microsoft Defender Antivirus (offline scan), and then select Scan now.Run a quick scan in Windows Security

  1. Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security and then Virus & threat protection. Open Windows Security settings.
  2. Under Current threats, select Quick scan (or in early versions of Windows 10, under Threat history, select Scan now).

Run a full-system scan

If you ever suspect your computer has a virus, use antivirus software to run a full-system scan of your device. It is best to set your antivirus program to do this automatically on a regular basis so you can detect any issues before they become emergencies.

How to detect viruses in computer : Download an antivirus or anti-malware tool. Disconnect from the internet and enter Safe Mode. Open Task Manager (or Activity Monitor) to check your device for malicious applications. Turn on your antivirus and scan your computer for viruses or other malicious software.

Is Windows virus scan good

Is Microsoft Defender antivirus safe Microsoft Defender antivirus is pretty safe. It has almost 100% real-time protection rates, according to independent tests. It also has additional features for device protection against malware, such as scanning, app and browser control, and account protection options.

How do I check for and remove computer viruses : Removing a computer virus from a PC

  1. Step 1: Download and install a virus scanner.
  2. Step 2: Disconnect from internet.
  3. Step 3: Reboot your computer into safe mode.
  4. Step 4: Delete any temporary files.
  5. Step 5: Run a virus scan.
  6. Step 6: Delete or quarantine the virus.
  7. Step 7: Reboot your computer.
  8. Step 8: Change all your passwords.

How do I run a free virus scan

  1. Download a free virus scanner and removal tool.
  2. Install the software by clicking on the .exe file.
  3. Open the program and scan your computer for viruses.


The status of your antivirus software is typically displayed in Windows Security Center. Open Security Center by clicking the Start button , clicking Control Panel, clicking Security, and then clicking Security Center. Click Malware protection.

How to check PC for spyware

Here are three of the most common ways to detect PC spyware:

  1. Look for spyware using Task Manager. Open Task Manager and navigate to the Processes tab to see all of the apps and processes running on your machine.
  2. Search for bloatware programs you didn't download.
  3. Download and use security software to scan your PC.

It's clear computer viruses and other malware are not a thing of the past. Keep reading to learn more about what a computer virus is, why you should still be concerned about online security, and what antivirus programs are best for protecting your devices.More videos on YouTube

  1. Step 2: Disconnect from internet.
  2. Step 3: Reboot your computer into safe mode.
  3. Step 4: Delete any temporary files.
  4. Step 5: Run a virus scan.
  5. Step 6: Delete or quarantine the virus.
  6. Step 7: Reboot your computer.
  7. Step 8: Change all your passwords.
  8. Step 9: Update your software, browser and operating system.


Download and use security software to scan your PC.

Malware protection programs will search your system for hidden and dangerous programs, including spyware. Best of all, these programs also scan incoming files for threats and alert you when they detect something dangerous.

Does Windows have a free Virus scanner : Microsoft Defender Antivirus is free and is included in Windows, always on and always working to protect your PC against malware.

Which Virus scan is best : The best antivirus services in 2024

  1. Bitdefender Total Security. The best antivirus of 2024—packed with features and value.
  2. Norton 360 Select with LifeLock. The best antivirus with threat protection and safe search.
  3. Avast One. The best antivirus security suite – a great pick for gamers.
  4. McAfee+ Premium.

Does resetting a PC remove viruses

A factory reset will remove most common viruses and other forms of malware. Specialized viruses and malware that can survive a factory reset exist, but they're quite rare. Viruses and other malware are an unfortunate reality of the modern age.

Can Trojan viruses be removed Trojan viruses can be removed in various ways. If you know which software contains the malware, you can simply uninstall it. However, the most effective way to remove all traces of a Trojan virus is to install antivirus software capable of detecting and removing Trojans.All you need to do is to install the online scanner and run it to detect malware on your device. The free virus scanner works only on computers running on the Windows operating system. However, you can try F‑Secure Total for free on your Mac computer and mobile devices using the iOS and Android operating systems.

Is there a 100% free antivirus : Is there a 100% free antivirus Yes, there are various free antivirus software, although not all of them will provide you with full protection. Avast Free Antivirus is completely free and offers all the security you need. How do I detect and remove viruses and other malware