Microsoft Safety Scanner is a free, on-demand virus and malware scanning tool provided by Microsoft. It detects and removes malware, spyware, and other security threats without requiring installation. Unlike real-time antivirus software, Microsoft Safety Scanner only works when manually executed and expires after 10 days, requiring a fresh download for future scans.
Why Use Microsoft Safety Scanner?
Microsoft Safety Scanner is useful for:
- Quick Malware Detection: Identifies and removes active viruses and threats.
- On-Demand Scanning: Works without installation and can be used alongside your existing antivirus.
- Standalone Security Check: Useful if your PC is acting suspiciously, even with antivirus installed.
Steps to Scan Your Windows Machine Using Microsoft Safety Scanner
What It Protects Against
- Viruses & Trojans: Detects and removes common malicious programs.
- Spyware & Ransomware: Scans for threats that steal personal data or lock your files.
- Suspicious System Modifications: Identifies unauthorized changes made by malware.
Recommended Product: Windows Defender
For additional protection, consider using Microsoft Defender for Individuals.
Additional Tips
- Update & Download a Fresh Copy Every 10 Days as Microsoft Safety Scanner expires.
- Run a Full Scan if You Suspect a Serious Infection.
- Keep Windows Defender Updated for continuous protection against threats.
For more Windows security tips, check out our guide on How to Enable Ransomware Protection in Windows 10/11.
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