The tool removes malicious software from an already-infected computer. Antivirus products block malicious software from running on a computer. It is significantly more desirable to block malicious software from running on a computer than to remove it after infection.

Learn how to remove malware from your PC. Use Microsoft Defender Antivirus in Windows 10 or Windows 11 to scan your PC for malware, viruses, or other threats.

The Program Install and Uninstall troubleshooter helps you automatically repair issues when you're blocked from installing or removing programs. It also fixes corrupted registry keys. First, you'll need to download the troubleshooter. Download troubleshooter.

If some Windows functions aren't working or Windows crashes, use the System File Checker to scan Windows and restore your files. Though the steps below might look complicated at first glance, just follow them in order, step-by-step, and we’ll try to get you back on track. Run the System File Checker tool (SFC.exe)

Follow these steps to automatically diagnose and repair Windows security problems by turning on UAC, DEP protection, Windows Firewall, and other Windows security options and features. Select the Download button on this page.

Learn how to update drivers in Windows using Device Manager to update or reinstall a driver.

Uninstall or remove apps and programs in Windows. There are different ways to remove apps and programs, so if you can't find the one you're looking for, you can try another location. Note that some apps and programs are built into Windows and can't be uninstalled.

Open Device Manager. Windows 10. In the search box on the taskbar, type device manager, then select Device Manager from the menu. Was this information helpful?

You can start a scan for malware any time you like. Note: Microsoft Defender currently offers anti-malware on Windows, Android, and macOS. From the Microsoft Defender dashboard. If you want a deeper scan, instead of selecting Quick scan in step 3, select Scan options and choose the type of scan you want.

Go to Start > Settings > Privacy & security > Location. Do one of the following: If you're an administrator on the device, you can use the Location services setting to control whether the location service can be used on this device. If you're not an admin on this device, you will not see this setting.