To remove viruses using Windows Defender, follow these steps:
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Open Windows Security: Click on the Windows Security icon in your system tray (usually in the bottom right corner of your screen). If you don't see the icon, you can search for "Windows Security" in the Start menu.
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Navigate to Virus & Threat Protection: In the Windows Security window, select "Virus & threat protection."
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Choose a Scan Option: Click on "Scan options." Here, you'll see several choices:
- Quick Scan: This is a fast scan that checks areas of your system most likely to be infected.
- Full Scan: This scan checks all files and running programs on your hard drive. It's more thorough but takes longer. This is recommended for virus removal.
- Custom Scan: This allows you to choose specific folders or drives to scan.
- Microsoft Defender Antivirus Offline Scan: This scan restarts your computer and runs the scan in an offline environment, making it more effective at removing stubborn malware. This is highly recommended if you suspect a serious infection.
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Run the Scan: Select either "Full scan" or "Microsoft Defender Antivirus Offline scan" for the most thorough virus removal. Then, click "Scan now."
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Review Scan Results: After the scan is complete, Windows Defender will display any threats it found.
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Take Action on Threats: Follow the on-screen instructions to remove, quarantine, or allow the detected threats. Quarantine moves the files to a secure location where they can't harm your system. Removal deletes the files. Only allow files if you are absolutely certain they are safe.
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Restart Your Computer (If Required): If Windows Defender removed certain types of malware or if you ran the Offline scan, you may need to restart your computer to complete the process.
By following these steps, you can effectively use Windows Defender to remove viruses and protect your computer.
