How to Check Windows for Malware
A monthly ten-minute pass catches most consumer malware long before it becomes an afternoon of cleanup.
The routine
- Start a threat scan and let it run in the background (3–15 minutes).
- While it runs, open Task Manager → Startup and disable anything unfamiliar.
- Review browser extensions; remove what you did not install deliberately.
- Check Settings → Apps sorted by install date.
- Read the scan results, quarantine detections, reboot if asked.
What a clean result means
It means no known malware and nothing behaving obviously badly right now. It does not certify the PC — pair the check with current updates and a real backup, as covered in the Windows PC security guide.
Frequently asked questions
Does Windows have a built-in malware check?
Yes — Windows Security → Virus & threat protection offers quick, full and offline scans.
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