If you have Windows 10, you’ll get the latest antivirus protection with Windows Defender. When you start up Windows 10 for the first time, Windows Defender is on and actively helping to protect your PC by scanning for malware (malicious software), viruses, and security threats. Windows Defender uses real-time protection to scan everything you download or run on your PC.

Windows Update downloads updates for Windows Defender automatically to help keep your PC safe and protect it from threats.

If you have an earlier version of Windows and are using Microsoft Security Essentials, it’s a good idea to move to Windows Defender.

Note

If you have install another antivirus app installed, Windows Defender will turn off automatically.

Schedule a scan in Windows Defender

Windows Defender regularly scans your PC to help keep it safe. If you want to set your own scan schedule:

1. Search for and open Schedule tasks.
2. In the left pane, expand Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows and then scroll down and double-click the Windows Defender folder.
3. In the top-center pane, double-click Windows Defender Scheduled Scan.
4. Select the Triggers tab, and then select New.
5. Set your time and frequency, and then select OK.

Turn Windows Defender real-time protection on or off

1. Select the Start  button, then select Settings  > Update & Security.
2. Select Windows Defender, then turn Real-time protection on or off.