Running a virus scan on your Windows 11 device helps keep your computer safe from malware and other malicious threats. Windows Defender is a built-in security tool designed to protect your system without needing extra software. Scanning your computer regularly ensures that any harmful files are detected and removed early.
This guide will walk you through how to run a Windows Defender virus scan step-by-step. Even if you’re new to Windows 11, these instructions are simple and easy to follow. By the end, you’ll know how to quickly check your system’s security status.
Performing regular scans is an important habit to maintain the health and performance of your PC. Let’s get started with the basics.
Follow the steps below carefully to run a full or quick scan using Windows Defender in Windows 11.
Quick Note: Before You Begin
- Ensure Windows is up to date. Updates often include security improvements, so having the latest version helps Defender work better.
- Close all open applications. This can help the scan run smoothly without interruptions.
- Check that Windows Defender is turned on. Sometimes third-party antivirus software might disable it.
- Have a stable internet connection. This allows Defender to download the latest virus definitions.
How to Run a Windows Defender Virus Scan on Windows 11
Step 1: Open Windows Security
First, click the Start menu (Windows icon) in the bottom-left corner of your screen. Type Windows Security in the search bar, then press Enter or click the app when it appears in the results. This will open the Windows Security dashboard where you can manage all your security settings.
Step 2: Access Virus & Threat Protection
In the Windows Security window, look at the left-hand menu and click on Virus & threat protection. This section shows your current virus protection status and scanning options.
Step 3: Choose Your Scan Type
Under the “Current threats” section, click Scan options or Run a new advanced scan. You will see several scanning options:
- Quick scan: Checks the areas of your computer most likely to be infected.
- Full scan: Scans all files and running programs on your hard drive; takes longer but is more thorough.
- Custom scan: Allows you to select specific files or folders to scan.
- Microsoft Defender Offline scan: Runs a scan before Windows loads; useful for hard-to-remove malware.
For most users, a Quick scan is a good starting point. If you suspect a deeper infection, choose Full scan.
Step 4: Start the Scan
After selecting your desired scan type, click the Scan now button. Windows Defender will begin scanning your system. A progress bar will show how much of the scan is complete, along with the number of files scanned.
Step 5: Review Scan Results
Once the scan finishes, Windows Defender will display the results. If threats are found, it will provide options to quarantine or remove the suspicious files. Follow the prompts carefully to secure your system.
Alternative Method: Running a Scan via Command Prompt
If you prefer using commands, you can run a quick scan through Command Prompt:
MpCmdRun.exe -Scan -ScanType 1This command initiates a quick scan using Windows Defender. To run it, open Command Prompt as administrator, paste the command, and press Enter.
FAQs: Common Questions About Windows Defender Scans
How often should I run a virus scan?
It’s recommended to run a quick scan at least once a week. Full scans can be done monthly or if you notice unusual behavior on your PC.
Can I run Windows Defender alongside other antivirus software?
Windows Defender can work with some antivirus programs, but having multiple active real-time protections can cause conflicts. If you use third-party antivirus, Windows Defender’s real-time protection usually disables automatically.
Why is my scan taking so long?
Full scans can take a significant amount of time depending on your hard drive size and the number of files. Running scans while multitasking or low on system resources may also slow it down.
What should I do if Windows Defender finds a virus?
Follow the recommended action to quarantine or remove the threat. If the problem persists, consider running an offline scan or using dedicated malware removal tools.
Is Windows Defender enough to protect my computer?
For most users, Windows Defender provides solid baseline protection. However, depending on your needs, you might consider additional security software for advanced features.
When Nothing Works: Additional Help
If Windows Defender isn’t running or scanning correctly, try these steps:
- Restart your computer and try again.
- Ensure your Windows is fully updated by going to Settings > Windows Update.
- Run the Windows Security Troubleshooter: Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Security.
- Consider resetting Windows Security app via Settings > Apps > Installed apps > Windows Security > Advanced options > Reset.
- If problems persist, visit the official Microsoft support page: Microsoft Windows Security Help.
Conclusion
Running a virus scan with Windows Defender on Windows 11 is straightforward and essential for keeping your system safe. By following the simple steps described, you can quickly identify and remove threats. Remember to scan regularly and keep your system updated for the best protection. If you encounter any issues, use the troubleshooting tips or seek official support for help. Staying vigilant with your computer’s security helps ensure a smooth and safe computing experience.