Protect your PC from potentially unwanted applications. Windows 10. Potentially unwanted applications (PUA) are a category of software that can cause your machine to run slowly, display unexpected ads, or at worst, install other software which may be more harmful or annoying.

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.

For example, the file name of the February 2020 version is Windows-KB890830-V5.80.exe, and the file name of the May 2020 version is Windows-KB890830-V5.82-ENU.exe. The following table lists the malicious software that the tool can remove.

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 you see the File Download box when you start downloading, select Run or Open.

Remove malware from your Windows PC. OneDrive (home or personal) OneDrive for Windows. 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.

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.

Turn Windows Security on or off. Security Windows 10. When you get a new device and start up Windows 10 for the first time, the antivirus protection that comes installed with the device is your default security app. However, Windows Security is pre-installed and ready for you to use at any time.

For Windows 8.1, see Create a USB recovery drive. To download Windows 11 installation media, see Recovery options in Windows. Create a recovery drive so you can reinstall Windows 10 or Windows 11 in case you experience a major issue such as hardware failure.

Codecs allow you to play different formats of audio and video files. Media Player supports a wide variety of codecs. Most are included out of the box; some additional codecs can be installed from the Microsoft Store.

How to use the PC Health Check app. 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.