How to Use Windows Security for Virus & Threat Protection (2025 Guide)

Kenoxisav   |   30 Mar 2025

Keeping your PC safe from viruses, malware, and cyber threats is essential in today's digital world. The good news? Windows Security (East Windows Defender) is built into Windows 10 and 11, which provides strong protection without any additional cost.

This broad guide will show you how to maximize Windows Security's virus and risk protection facilities to protect your system in 2025.

Getting Started with Windows Security

To access Windows Security:

Press Windows + S and type "Windows Security"

Open the app or go through: Start > Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security

The dashboard displays all protection areas, with "Virus & Threat Protection" being our main focus.

Running Virus Scans

Windows Security offers three scanning options:

Quick Scan

Checks active processes and common malware locations

Ideal for daily or weekly routine checks

Takes just a few minutes

Full Scan

Examines every file and program on your system

More thorough but takes longer (30+ minutes)

Recommended for monthly deep scans

Custom Scan

Lets you scan specific drives or folders

Useful for checking external devices

To run a scan:

Open Virus & Threat Protection

Select "Quick Scan" or click "Scan Options" for Full/Custom

Review and remove any detected threats

Optimizing Protection Settings

For maximum security, configure these key settings:

Real-Time Protection

Continuously monitors for threats

Should always remain enabled

Found under: Manage Settings > Real-time protection

Cloud-Delivered Protection

Leverages Microsoft's threat intelligence

Provides faster detection of new malware

Enable in: Manage Settings > Cloud-delivered protection

Automatic Sample Submission

Sends suspicious files to Microsoft for analysis

Helps improve future protection

Optional but recommended

Controlled Folder Access

Protects important folders from ransomware

Safeguards Documents, Pictures, etc.

Configure in: Ransomware protection

Handling Detected Threats

When Windows Security finds malware:

Immediately quarantine or remove the threat

Restart your computer if prompted

Run a follow-up scan to verify removal

Monitor for any unusual system behavior

For stubborn threats:

Use the Windows Defender Offline Scan (boot-time scan)

Try the Microsoft Safety Scanner (standalone removal tool)

Is Windows Security Enough?

While Windows Security has improved significantly, it has some limitations:

Strengths:

Excellent malware detection rates

Lightweight system impact

Seamless Windows integration

Consider adding:

A dedicated browser extension for phishing protection

A password manager for credential security

A VPN for privacy-conscious users

Who might need more:

Business users requiring advanced endpoint protection

Those frequently downloading files from risky sources

Users wanting comprehensive security suites with extra features

Conclusion

Windows Security provides solid baseline protection for most users. To stay secure:

Keep real-time protection enabled

Perform regular scans (weekly quick, monthly full)

Update Windows and security definitions regularly

Practice safe browsing habits

For enhanced security, consider supplementing with additional tools based on your specific needs. Remember, the best protection combines good software with smart user habits.

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