Microsoft – How to check if a file is clean before downloading

Microsoft – How to check if a file is clean before downloading


Problem

A customer wishes to check if a file they want to download is safe and free of malware before downloading it.


Resolution

  1. Open your browser to the page you wish to download the executable or document file.
  2. Right click on the link for the executable or document, then click the context menu item as appropriate to your browser.

    Copy Link Address – Google Chrome
    Copy Link – Microsoft Edge
    Copy Link - Firefox
    Copy Link - Safari

  3. With the link copied click the plus sign in the top of the browser window to create a new tab.
  4. Then click the browser address bar and go to:  www.virustotal.com
  5. On the Virus Total website click the URL link.
     
  6. Then right-click the edit box and choose Paste on the context menu, the URL for the executable file or document link will be pasted, then press ENTER.
  7. A results page will then be displayed.  The link will then be analysed by a number of Anti-Virus products and if found click will show a green tick and show the word clean next to them.  The greater number of ticks seen generally the greater confidence one has the file is safe to download.

    • Related Articles

    • Microsoft – Completely remove a McAfee anti-virus

      Problem A customer who has McAfee software and wishes to completely remove it from the system. Detail McAfee is one of a number of major anti-virus solutions that do deals with computer manufacturers to pre-install their software titles onto consumer ...

    • Microsoft – Scanning to PDF file using built in apps

      Information If a scanner or all in one printer/scanner unit does not offer a dedicated scan to PDF function it is possible to use either Windows built in or Microsoft Store app to accomplish the task. Method 1 - Using Windows Scan The Windows Scan is ...

    • Microsoft - File Explorer hotkey shortcuts

      About Below are hotkeys that can be used in File Explorer for managing files in Windows. Applies to File Explorer (Windows 10/11) File Explorer hotkeys Windows+E = Open File Explorer Alt + D or F4 = Select address bar. Alt + Enter = Open Properties ...

    • JAWS - Files and folders announced with check boxes in Windows Explore

      Problem: When you are using Windows File Explorer or you are on the Desktop icons all files announce with checkboxes. Explanation: An option in Windows 10 is available which when set will put a checkbox next to each file represented in the file ...

    • Microsoft - Show hidden/system/protected operating system files in File Explorer

      Problem You need to reveal hidden/system/protected operating system files in File Explorer. Applies to Windows 10/11 Resolution Please make the following changes to view all system files. Windows 10 Open any Explorer window and click on the “View” ...