

Running a scan offline scans the computer for malware before the operating system loads, giving the antivirus a chance to remove the virus while it can’t protect itself. Microsoft Defender Offline Scan – The offline scan is used when malware is difficult to remove while the operating system, Windows 11, is active.


Open Windows Defender Antivirus from the Start Menu If you have any security-related notifications it might have additional things, like a small yellow triangle.Ĭlick the icon to open Windows Security, then click on “Virus & Threat Protection.” Windows Security places an icon on the taskbar of every Windows 11 PC. There are a few ways to open Windows Security. Microsoft Defender Antivirus, and all of the scan options, are found within the Windows Security window.

Here’s how you can use it to scan your PC. Microsoft Defender goes toe to toe with the best third-party antivirus available. Microsoft’s Antivirus software has come a long way since the days of Microsoft Security Essentials.
