There are two ways to Scan Files and Folders for viruses or malware with Microsoft Security, which comes pre-loaded on all Windows 10 computers.
Scan Files and Folders to detect viruses in Windows 10
Windows Security, which was earlier called Windows Defender and Microsoft Security will automatically scan your files for malware the moment you start them on your PC.
This can happen only in the event that a third-party antivirus application isn’t installed on your PC and the “Real time Scanning” feature of Windows Security is switched ON and running on your computer.
If Real-Time Scanning has been turned off on Windows Security, you can still scan any file or Folder to detect viruses or malware with the help of Windows Security Manual Scan.
If you’re using an antivirus program from a third party it is still in a position to scan files for viruses as well as Malware on your system with the “Custom Scan” option that is available within Windows Security.
It is possible to use the Custom Scan feature in Windows Security is also a great way to Scan Files and Folders that are located on USB Flash Drivers and Storage Drives connected to your computer.
1. Manually Scan Files and Folders for viruses
If no third-party antivirus application is on your PC then you are able to check any folder or file for malware by right-clicking it.
1. Locate the File/Folder you wish to check for viruses or malware.
2. Right-click on the Folder or File and choose the Scan using Microsoft Defender option.
Notice: If May 2020 update isn’t running on your PC the right-click menu will show “Scan using Windows Defender”.
3. On Windows Security screen you’ll be able see the results of the malware scan.
When the folder or file is clean, directories are clean, you’ll be able to see “No Recent Threats”. If malware or virus is discovered, you will get a Alerts for Threats found from Microsoft Defender as well as the names of the affected files.
How to Remove Malware using Microsoft Defender
If malware is found, simply press the Start Actions button. Windows Security will begin the process of eliminating malicious software from affected folder or file.
If you’re looking for more details regarding the malware that was removed Click on the Protection History option located below the scan results (see above image).
2. Scan Files and Folders for viruses using Windows Security Custom Scan
As previously mentioned as well, you should be able to make use of this Custom Scan feature in Windows Security to look over Files for viruses even if a third-party antivirus program is running on your PC.
1. Go to Settings > Update and security >> Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection.
2. On the next screen, click Scan Options.
3. Select Custom Scan option and then click on Scan Now.
4. On the next screen, choose the Folder you would like to check for malware.
In addition to the Custom Scan feature, Windows Security can also conduct a thorough offline scan of all files as well as programs and applications in your personal computer.
