Stay protected with the Windows Security app — by Microsoft Support

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How to use the built-in Windows Security app for antivirus, firewall and other protections, including running scans and managing real-time protection.

Quick steps

Open Windows Security from the Start menu
Right-click a file or folder and choose Scan with Microsoft Defender
Run a Quick scan under Virus & threat protection
Toggle real-time protection under Manage settings

Paraphrased from the source. Menus can differ by version, so check the original for full details.

Read the full article on support.microsoft.com

Source: Stay protected with the Windows Security app by Microsoft Support. Licence: Link only (©).

Source reviewed: 2026-11-02
Link checked: 2026-11-02
Tested hands-on: Not by Oddbyte.Me

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