Microsoft - Run a Windows Defender scan

Microsoft - Run a Windows Defender scan

Problem

A user would like to run a Windows Defender virus scan on  their computer.


Applies to

  1. Windows 11

Resolution

Windows Defender is a free built in virus scanner that protects your system and allows one to run scans to check the system for viruses and malware on demand.  There are two main types of scan one may with to run; a quick scan does a rapid check of the system whilst the full scan option will scan the system in greater detail but takes longer to complete.


Defender Quick Scan

Run a quick scan to conduct a rapid check of the system when things appear to be running normally.
 
  1. Click Windows button to open start menu.
  2. Then enter the word ‘virus’ and click the result Virus and Threat Protection.
  3. Then click the Quick Scan button to start a scan.

Defender Quick Scan

Run a full scan for greater detection accuracy, this may take longer than a quick scan and may be most useful if you suspect a problem.
 
  1. Click Windows button to open start menu.
  2. Then enter the word ‘virus’ and click the result Virus and Threat Protection.
  3. Then click Scan Options link in the new window.
  4. Then click Full Scan radio button.
  5. Then click Scan Now button to begin scanning the system, this take some time to complete.

Using another scanning tool

Customers may try running an alternative tool to verify their system is clear by running an ADWCleaner scan as well.