Microsoft Defender Antivirus is a powerful tool that finds and removes malware from your PC. Here's how to use it in Windows 10 or 11 to scan your PC. Important: Before you use Microsoft Defender Offline, make sure to save any open files and close apps and programs. Open your Windows Security settings.

Windows 10. 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. You can try to repair a program first, if it's just not running correctly. Windows 11 Windows 10.

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.

The Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT) helps remove malicious software from computers that are running any of the following operating systems: Windows 10. Windows Server 2019. Windows Server 2016. Windows 8.1. Windows Server 2012 R2. Windows Server 2008 R2. Windows 7. Windows Server 2008.

Open Windows Security settings. Windows Security is pre-installed on Windows 10 and ready for you to use at any time.

Microsoft Defender Offline scan. Uses the latest definitions to scan your device for the latest threats. This happens after a restart, without loading Windows, so any persistent malware has a more difficult time hiding or defending itself.

Symptoms. When you run an application that uses Crypt32.dll on a computer that is running Windows Vista or Windows Server 2008, the application crashes. This issue may occur when you use an application that relies on Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).

Windows 11 Windows 10. PC Health Check app brings you up to date info on your Windows device health, helping you take action to improve your device performance and troubleshoot performance problems. It is periodically updated based on customer feedback to help you make the most of your Windows PC. How to open PC Health Check.

How to start a scan for viruses or malware in Microsoft Defender - Microsoft Support. Microsoft Defender on Android Microsoft Defender on Mac More... You can start a scan for malware any time you like. Note: Microsoft Defender currently offers anti-malware on Windows, Android, and macOS. Windows Android Mac. From the Microsoft Defender dashboard.

Select Update Driver. If Windows doesn't find a new driver, you can try looking for one on the device manufacturer's website and follow their instructions. Reinstall the device driver. In the search box on the taskbar, enter device manager, then select Device Manager.