How to Run a Malware Scan on Windows 10?

Are you worried that your Windows 10 PC might be infected with malware? Malware can cause serious damage to your computer and personal data, so it’s important to be proactive in protecting yourself against it. Fortunately, Windows 10 offers a built-in malware scanner that can help you detect and remove malicious programs. In this guide, we’ll show you how to run a malware scan on Windows 10 and keep your PC safe.

What is a Malware Scan?

A malware scan is an automated process that examines a computer system’s files and folders for malicious software, such as viruses, worms, Trojans, and other malicious programs. It is usually used to detect and remove malware from a computer system. Malware scans are typically run by anti-malware software, such as antivirus programs.

A malware scan is an important part of keeping a computer system secure and safe. It can help to detect and remove malicious software before it has a chance to cause damage or spread to other computers. Malware scans can also help to identify security vulnerabilities in a system, which can be addressed and fixed to prevent further attacks.

How to Run a Malware Scan on Windows 10?

Running a malware scan on Windows 10 is relatively simple and straightforward. The process involves using a reliable anti-malware program to detect and remove any malicious software that may be present on the system. Below are the steps for running a malware scan on Windows 10:

Step 1: Download and Install an Anti-Malware Program

The first step in the process is to download and install an anti-malware program. There are many different anti-malware programs available, and it is important to choose one that is reliable and effective. Some popular anti-malware programs for Windows 10 include Avast, AVG, Malwarebytes, and Kaspersky.

Once the anti-malware program has been downloaded and installed, it is important to make sure that it is kept up to date. Most anti-malware programs will have an option to automatically update their virus definitions, which should be enabled to ensure that the program is always able to detect the latest threats.

Step 2: Run a Full System Scan

Once the anti-malware program has been installed, the next step is to run a full system scan. This will scan all of the files and folders on the computer and detect any malicious software that may be present. It is important to ensure that the scan is run on a regular basis, as new threats are constantly emerging and the scan should be able to detect them.

Step 3: Review Scan Results

Once the scan has been completed, it is important to review the scan results. This will allow the user to identify any malicious software that may have been detected and take the necessary steps to remove it from the system.

Step 4: Take Action On Detected Threats

Once any malicious software has been identified, it is important to take action to remove it from the system. Most anti-malware programs will have an option to quarantine or delete the detected threats, which should be done to ensure that the system remains secure.

Step 5: Keep the System Secure

The final step is to keep the system secure. This involves ensuring that all software is kept up to date, using strong passwords, and using a reliable anti-malware program to run regular scans. This will help to protect the system from malicious software and other security threats.

Related FAQ

What is a Malware Scan?

A malware scan is a process of scanning a computer system for malicious code or software. Malware scans can be done manually, as part of an automated process, or with the help of a malware removal tool. The goal is to identify any malicious code or software that might be present on the system and take the necessary steps to remove it.

How to Run a Malware Scan on Windows 10?

Running a malware scan on Windows 10 is a relatively straightforward process that can be done with the help of a few built-in tools. First, you will need to open the Windows Security app. You can do this by searching for “Windows Security” or “Windows Defender” in the Start menu. Once the app is open, you will need to select “Virus & threat protection” in the left-hand panel. From there, you can select “Run a new advanced scan”, and then select the type of scan you would like to run, such as a full scan or a custom scan. Once the scan is complete, you will be notified of any malicious code or software that was detected.

What is the Difference Between a Full Scan and a Custom Scan?

The difference between a full scan and a custom scan is the scope of the scan. A full scan will scan your entire system, including all files, folders, and drives. A custom scan, on the other hand, will allow you to select specific locations or files to scan, such as a specific folder or drive. This is useful if you know that a particular area of your system is more likely to be compromised by malicious code or software.

What Should I Do if Malware is Found During the Scan?

If malware is found during the scan, you will be notified of the potential threat and given the option to remove it. Depending on the type of malicious code or software, you may be asked to quarantine it, or you may be given the option to delete it. It is important to make sure you understand what the malware is, and the potential risks associated with it, before taking any action.

Are There Any Other Ways to Scan for Malware?

In addition to the Windows Security app, there are a number of third-party malware scanners available for Windows 10. These scanners may offer additional features and provide a more thorough scan than the built-in Windows Security app. It is important to make sure you are using a reputable and trustworthy scanner, as some malicious code or software may be disguised as a legitimate scanner.

What Are Some Best Practices for Keeping My System Secure?

In addition to running regular malware scans, there are a number of other best practices that you can use to keep your system secure. This includes making sure you are running the latest version of your operating system, using strong and unique passwords for all of your accounts, downloading software and apps from trusted sources, and regularly backing up your data. Additionally, it is important to be aware of any potential security threats, such as phishing emails or suspicious links, and take the necessary steps to protect yourself.

How to Scan for Viruses with Windows Defender – Windows 10 Tutorial

By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can easily and quickly perform a malware scan on your Windows 10 device. This scan will help ensure your system is free from malicious threats, allowing you to use your device with confidence. Malware scans are essential in keeping your computer secure, so make sure you run one on a regular basis!