To scan a specific document or folder with Microsoft Defender, simply right-click the file or folder in File Explorer and select "Scan with Microsoft Defender". This initiates a scan of the selected item by Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Steps to Scan a File or Folder:
-
Locate the File or Folder: Open File Explorer and navigate to the file or folder you wish to scan.
-
Right-Click: Right-click on the selected file or folder.
-
Find the Scan Option:
- In most versions of Windows, you should see "Scan with Microsoft Defender" directly in the context menu.
- Windows 11 Note: On Windows 11, you might need to select "Show more options" after right-clicking to reveal the "Scan with Microsoft Defender" option.
-
Initiate the Scan: Click "Scan with Microsoft Defender". A scan will begin, and you'll typically see a progress window or notification indicating the scan is in progress.
What Happens During the Scan:
Microsoft Defender Antivirus will analyze the selected file or folder for known malware, viruses, and other threats. If any threats are detected, you will be notified, and you can choose to quarantine, remove, or take other actions to resolve the issue.
Important Considerations:
- Real-Time Protection: Microsoft Defender also provides real-time protection, which automatically scans files as you access them, providing continuous security.
- Full System Scans: Scanning individual files or folders is useful for targeted checks. For a more comprehensive assessment, consider running a full system scan from within the Microsoft Defender Security Center app.
- Up-to-Date Definitions: Ensure your Microsoft Defender Antivirus definitions are up-to-date for the most effective protection against the latest threats. Microsoft Defender typically updates these definitions automatically, but you can manually check for updates in the Security Center.
