Open Windows Security to ensure real-time protection, cloud-delivered protection, automatic sample submission, and virus definition updates are all enabled. 2. Run a manual scan using Quick scan for routine checks or Full scan for deeper inspection, and let Windows automatically handle any threats found. 3. Manually check for protection updates under Virus & threat protection to ensure the latest definitions are installed, especially before a full scan. 4. Review detection history to monitor quarantined items and only allow them if confirmed safe, avoiding potential malware risks. 5. Enable Controlled folder access to protect important files from unauthorized changes, adding an extra layer against ransomware. Keep Windows updated, avoid disabling Windows Security unless replacing it with another antivirus, and perform weekly quick scans for optimal protection. This approach ensures reliable, built-in defense against threats for most users.

Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender) is built into Windows 10 and 11 and provides solid protection against viruses, malware, and other threats—no extra software needed. Here’s how to use it effectively for virus and threat protection.

1. Open Windows Security and Check Your Status

First, make sure Windows Security is active and up to date:

• Click the Start button and type Windows Security.
• Open the app. You’ll see a dashboard with sections like "Virus & threat protection," "Firewall & network protection," and "Device performance & health."
• Under Virus & threat protection, check that:
  • Real-time protection is On
  • Cloud-delivered protection is On
  • Automatic sample submission is On
  • Virus & threat protection updates are current

If anything is off, click the warning and turn it on.

? Tip: Real-time protection monitors files and programs in the background. Keep it on at all times.

2. Run a Manual Scan When Needed

Even with real-time protection, it’s smart to run a manual scan occasionally or if you suspect an issue.

In the Virus & threat protection section:

• Click Scan options under "Current threats"
• Choose a scan type:
  • Quick scan – Fast, checks key areas (recommended for routine checks)
  • Full scan – Thorough, checks all files and running programs (takes longer)
  • Custom scan – Lets you pick specific drives or folders
  • Microsoft Defender Offline scan – Runs before Windows starts, useful for deep-rooted malware

After selecting, click Scan now.

?? If threats are found, Windows will try to remove or quarantine them automatically. Review the results and follow prompts.

3. Keep Protection Up to Date

Windows Security updates its virus definitions automatically, but you can manually check:

• In Virus & threat protection, go to Protection updates
• Click Check for updates
• This downloads the latest malware definitions and engine updates

Do this before a full scan if you’re troubleshooting.

4. Review Detection History and Quarantined Items

After a scan, you might want to see what was found:

• Go to Virus & threat protection → Protection history
• You’ll see a list of detected items, actions taken, and timestamps
• If something was quarantined and you believe it’s safe (e.g., a false positive), you can:
  • Click the item
  • Select Actions → Allow on device

?? Be cautious allowing quarantined items. Only do this if you’re certain it’s not malicious.

5. Enable Controlled Folder Access (Optional but Helpful)

This feature blocks unauthorized apps from changing files in protected folders (like Documents, Pictures)—great against ransomware.

• Go to Virus & threat protection → Manage ransomware protection
• Turn on Controlled folder access
• If needed, add apps you trust to the allowlist under Allow an app through controlled folder access

Final Tips

• Windows Security works best when Windows is up to date.
• Avoid disabling it unless you’ve installed another antivirus (then it disables automatically).
• Don’t ignore warnings—even if rare, they mean something needs attention.

Basically, just leave it running, run a quick scan once a week, and keep your system updated. It’s simple but effective for most users.

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