Scanning for viruses on Windows 10 has kinda become a must-do if you want to keep your PC safe from all the malware lurking out there. Of course, Windows comes with its own built-in antivirus called Windows Defender (now called Microsoft Defender, but whatever), and it’s pretty decent if you don’t want to install third-party stuff. Sometimes, it feels like Windows itself makes checking for viruses more complicated than it needs to be — like hunting for hidden settings or navigating through menus that aren’t exactly user-friendly. Still, once you get the hang of it, it’s a straightforward process. The goal here is to run quick checks or even full scans periodically to make sure nothing sneaky is hiding out in your system, which could cause all sorts of issues down the line.
How to Scan for Viruses on Windows 10
Method 1: Using Windows Security in its natural habitat
Opening Windows Security is usually the first step. On some machines, opening the app via the Start menu works like a charm — just type “Windows Security” into the search bar, hit Enter, and you’re there. This tool is like the main hub for all security-related settings on Windows 10. It’s where you’ll find the virus scan options, firewall toggles, and more. If you don’t see it right away, double-check if your Windows is fully updated because Microsoft occasionally tweaks the menu paths or renames things.
- Open Start menu
- Type “Windows Security”
- Press Enter
Method 2: Navigating through settings
If you prefer going through Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security, that also works. Sometimes, this is more reliable especially if Windows search acts flaky or if you’ve customized your start menu heavily. Once inside, find and click on ‘Virus & threat protection’—this section is like the command center for virus scans.
- Open Settings
- Go to Update & Security
- Select Windows Security
- Click on Virus & threat protection
Method 3: Running a quick scan like a boss
Once inside the virus protection main screen, you’ll see options like ‘Quick scan’.This is a fast way to get a cursory look at your system without hogging all your resources. The idea is, especially if you’ve been clicking random links or downloaded sketchy files, to let Defender do a sweep to clear out immediate threats. On some setups, pressing the button doesn’t start right away — give it a few seconds or restart the app if needed. Sometimes, on certain Windows builds, the scan just stalls or doesn’t start first try.
- Look for the Quick scan button under “Current threats”
- Press it and watch Windows Defender work — it takes a few minutes
Method 4: Doing a full deep-clean
If you suspect something’s really fishy, or if an antivirus warning showed up and you want to be thorough, go for the Full scan. This will check every corner of your system, including files, folders, and even hidden areas Windows Defender would normally ignore on quick scans. Since this takes longer (sometimes 30 minutes or more), plan it for when you’re not in a rush. On some setups, it helps to close all apps before starting a full scan to avoid slowing down your PC.
- Back in the Virus & threat protection page, click on Scan options
- Select Full scan
- Click Scan now and wait patiently
Once done, Defender will give you a report — hopefully, no threats! Sometimes, it pops up with threats it quashed or quarantined, and that’s good to see. If threats are lurking, just follow the prompts to remove or quarantine them. Because of course, Windows has to make it a bit harder than it has to be, but overall it’s pretty manageable.
Tips for Better Virus Scanning on Windows 10
- Schedule regular scans — set it up in Windows Security or using Task Scheduler if you’re down to get geeky. Weekly quick scans and monthly full scans are a solid routine.
- Keep software and definitions updated — this is crucial. Check for updates in Windows Security or Windows Update often. Otherwise, your defender might miss the latest threats.
- Don’t ignore the full scan sometimes — on one system it worked fine just running quick scans, but on another, threats kept hiding until a full scan caught them.
- Be cautious with downloads and links — avoid shady sites, and don’t open random email attachments unless you trust the sender. Virus scans are good, but best to avoid infections in the first place.
- Turn on real-time protection — this feature is usually enabled by default, but double-check under settings since Windows sometimes turns it off after updates or conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Windows Defender?
It’s the built-in antivirus that comes with Windows 10/11. Not as flashy as some third-party options, but it’s pretty good for most casual users.
How often should I run a virus scan?
Quick scans weekly, full scans monthly — though more often can’t hurt if you’re suspicious or dealing with risky files. It’s like brushing teeth, kinda essential.
Can I run another antivirus alongside Defender?
Sure, technically. But it’s not recommended because they tend to fight each other and cause conflicts. Defender is sufficient for most people anyway.
Will scans slow down my PC?
Quick scans usually don’t, but full scans can use a decent chunk of resources. Best to do full scans when you’re not actively working or gaming.
What if I find a virus?
Follow the prompts from Defender to quarantine or delete. Once done, it’s a good idea to run another scan for peace of mind, just in case.
Summary
- Open Windows Security.
- Navigate to ‘Virus & threat protection’.
- Hit ‘Quick scan’ or ‘Full scan’ as needed.
- Wait for it to finish.
- Review the results and take action if necessary.
Wrap-up
This whole process shouldn’t be too complicated once you get familiar with it. Running regular scans with Windows Defender is still one of the easiest ways to keep malware from wrecking your day. Sure, sometimes it feels like Windows could make it simpler, but at least it’s free and decent enough for most casual setups. Just remember to keep everything updated, do those occasional full scans, and stay cautious with downloads. Fingers crossed this helps prevent any unwelcome surprises in the future — worked for me, maybe it’ll do the same for others.