How to Scan for Virus on Windows 10

Why is Virus Scanning Crucial?

You’re probably thinking, “But I’m careful! I don’t click on suspicious links or download shady software.” Well, even if you're cautious, viruses evolve daily. New threats emerge constantly, which means that even the most vigilant user can fall prey to a hidden piece of malware. A virus scan acts as your last line of defense, hunting down malware that may have bypassed your first security protocols.

Built-in Windows Defender: Your First Line of Defense

Windows 10 comes with its own built-in antivirus software—Windows Defender—and it’s more than just a basic tool. Over the years, it’s evolved into a powerful piece of software capable of catching up to 99% of malware in real-time.

Here’s how to scan for viruses using Windows Defender:

1. Open Windows Security:

   • Press Start, type "Windows Security" in the search bar, and hit Enter.

2. Go to Virus & Threat Protection:

   • On the left sidebar, select Virus & Threat Protection. You’ll see options for scanning and protection status.

3. Choose a Scan Option:

   • Under the Current Threats section, you’ll find different types of scans:
     • Quick Scan: This option scans the areas where malware is most commonly found, such as startup files and temporary folders. A quick scan usually takes around 10-15 minutes.
     • Full Scan: A more thorough approach that goes through all files and programs on your hard drive. This scan can take several hours, depending on the size of your drive.
     • Custom Scan: This allows you to choose specific files or folders to scan. Ideal for when you suspect a particular file might be infected.
     • Offline Scan: This is the ultimate weapon. If Windows Defender detects stubborn malware that can’t be removed while Windows is running, it will recommend an offline scan. The system restarts, scans for deep-rooted malware, and removes it before Windows boots up again.

4. Start the Scan:

   • Once you’ve selected your scan type, click Scan Now. Windows Defender will run through your files and alert you to any issues.

Interpreting Scan Results

After the scan, you’ll either breathe a sigh of relief, or you’ll be greeted with a message saying Threats Found. If it’s the latter, Windows Defender will automatically suggest actions, such as quarantine or remove the virus.

Here’s a tip: quarantine allows you to safely isolate the infected files without deleting them. This is useful if you suspect the virus was incorrectly flagged, but most of the time, you’ll want to remove the threats immediately.

Scheduled Scans: Automate the Process

Nobody wants to remember to manually scan for viruses every week. The good news is, you can set up scheduled scans to ensure your computer is always protected:

1. Open Windows Task Scheduler:

   • Press Windows + R, type "taskschd.msc", and hit Enter.

2. Create a Basic Task:

   • On the right, click Create Basic Task, give it a name (like "Virus Scan"), and set the frequency (daily, weekly, or monthly).

3. Set the Task to Run Windows Defender:

   • In the action pane, choose Start a Program and browse to C:\Program Files\Windows Defender\MpCmdRun.exe.

4. Add Arguments:

   • For a quick scan, add -Scan -ScanType 1. For a full scan, use -Scan -ScanType 2.

Scheduled scans ensure you never forget to protect your system from potential threats.

Third-Party Antivirus Software: Should You Use It?

While Windows Defender is an excellent tool, some people prefer to use third-party antivirus software. Why? Some antivirus suites offer additional features like VPNs, password managers, and identity theft protection. If you work with sensitive data, it may be worth exploring these options.

Popular third-party options include:

• Norton: Known for its all-in-one solution that includes a VPN and dark web monitoring.
• Kaspersky: Excellent at blocking ransomware and other advanced threats.
• Bitdefender: Lightweight and resource-efficient, with powerful detection rates.

How to Use Third-Party Antivirus Software

1. Download and Install: Head to the antivirus provider’s website, download their installer, and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.

2. Run an Initial Scan: Once installed, run a full scan immediately to check for any malware Windows Defender might have missed.

3. Stay Updated: Make sure your antivirus is always up-to-date. Most third-party solutions offer automatic updates, but it’s wise to manually check from time to time.

4. Use Real-Time Protection: Third-party software often has advanced real-time protection features that stop malware the second it tries to infect your computer.

What to Do If a Virus Is Detected

If your scan comes back positive for malware, here’s what you need to do:

1. Isolate Your Device: Disconnect from the internet immediately to prevent any malware from communicating with its source.

2. Remove the Virus: Whether you’re using Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus, follow the recommended steps to either quarantine or delete the infected files.

3. Update All Software: Outdated software is one of the primary entry points for malware. Make sure everything from your OS to your applications is fully updated.

4. Backup Your Data: Once your system is clean, create backups. This ensures that if you’re infected again, you won’t lose important data.

Stay Safe: Best Practices for Virus Prevention

The best virus protection is prevention. Follow these guidelines to minimize the risk of infection:

• Don’t Click on Suspicious Links: Phishing scams are everywhere. Always verify the sender and the URL before clicking anything.
• Use Strong Passwords: Weak passwords can be easily guessed by malware designed for brute-force attacks. Consider using a password manager.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
• Keep Software Up-to-Date: Regularly updating software patches known vulnerabilities, making it harder for viruses to exploit your system.

Why Regular Scans Are Non-Negotiable

Even if your system seems fine, running regular virus scans is crucial. Malware often runs in the background, quietly collecting data without your knowledge. A system that’s performing well can still be infected.

Should You Trust Windows Defender Alone?

While Windows Defender is a strong option, many users ask: Is it enough?

For most casual users, Windows Defender is sufficient protection. It consistently ranks well in independent tests and has integrated well with Windows 10. However, if you're dealing with highly sensitive data or if you work in industries like finance or healthcare, pairing it with a specialized third-party solution might offer more peace of mind.

Conclusion

By now, you should have a comprehensive understanding of how to scan for viruses on Windows 10 and why regular scans are essential. Whether you’re using Windows Defender or third-party software, the most important thing is to stay proactive about protecting your computer. Viruses and malware aren’t going anywhere, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can keep your system safe from harm.

So, are you ready to give your system a much-needed scan?