Running virus scan windows 8

However, there might be times when Windows Defender is unable to remove the threat. This happens when malware is infecting the Windows system processes or other files. In those cases, you can use the Windows Defender Offline Scanner. The Offline Scanner is another scan type of Windows Defender that is mainly designed to remove stubborn malware.

When you launch the Offline Scanner, Windows Defender will reboot your system into a secure recovery environment that is outside the regular Windows environment. Since Windows Defender is no longer running or using the same regular Windows environment, it can not only scan efficiently but also remove any malware from the system files or processes.

So, all you have to do is click a button and Windows will take care of the rest. Note: Below steps are only applicable to Windows If you are using Windows 7 or 8, follow the second method. Also, Windows Defender is now called Windows Security.

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Our best free virus scanner and virus cleaner. AV Comparatives: Product of the Year. Ryan R. Eric S. Daryl C. FAQs How to run a virus scan? Our detailed guides will show you how to clean your computer of viruses, how to clean viruses from your laptop, and how a phone virus checker can protect your mobile devices: How to remove a virus from PC How to remove a virus from Mac How to remove a virus from Android How to remove a virus from iPhone.

Are there any free virus scans? Free virus detection software from a reputable provider like Avast is the best way to perform a free virus scan, online as well as off. Should I run a virus scan on Mac or mobile devices, too? Is Windows Defender enough to protect my PC? Windows Defender lacks many essential features that other free antiviruses provide, such as offline protection and comprehensive anti-phishing defenses.

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