Scan PC for Malware in Minutes
Microsoft Defender's 3 scan options protect your Windows 11 device from threats
To check your PC for malware, you can utilize the built-in protection tools that come with Windows 11. Microsoft Defender, an antivirus tool that's part of the Windows Security suite, offers various scan options and threat protection features.
The Virus & threat protection section in Microsoft Defender shows details of the latest scan at the top, giving you an idea of your PC's current security status. Microsoft Defender is turned on by default and scans regularly to check for threats.
For a more thorough check, you can choose from different scan options. Microsoft Defender's quick scans only look 'where threats are commonly found', but you can also opt for a Full scan, which can take some time depending on how many files are on your system.
Additionally, Microsoft Defender has an offline scan option, which restarts the PC to put it into the Windows Recovery Environment for an even more thorough scan.
It's also essential to ensure your firewall is turned on for all connections. The Firewall & network protection entry in Windows Security allows you to do this, with default options that block incoming connections that haven't been given permission for.
## Why it matters Checking your PC for malware is crucial to protect your sensitive information and prevent subtle attacks that can go undetected. If your PC is suddenly running slowly, freezes more often than usual, or you notice strange processes running, it may be a sign of malware. Running regular scans with Microsoft Defender and ensuring your firewall is on can give you peace of mind and help you confirm whether your PC has a security issue.
## What to do next To get started, search for Microsoft Defender using the Start menu and explore the various options available. Check the Virus & threat protection section, scan options, and Protection history tab to get a comprehensive view of your PC's security status. By taking these steps, you can help protect your Windows 11 device from malware and keep your sensitive information safe.
