How to Run a Full Microsoft Defender Scan

Follow these steps to run a comprehensive Full Scan using Microsoft Defender to identify and remove malware from your Windows 11 system.

1. Open Windows Security. Click the Start button and type 'Windows Security'. Select the application from the search results to open the main dashboard.
2. Access Virus & threat protection. In the Windows Security home screen, click on the 'Virus & threat protection' tile. This section manages your device's security status and scan options.
3. View scan options. Locate the 'Current threats' section. Click the 'Scan options' link positioned directly beneath the 'Quick scan' button.
4. Choose Full scan. Select the radio button labeled 'Full scan'. This setting initiates a deep check of all files and programs currently stored on your hard drive.
5. Initiate the scan. Click the 'Scan now' button at the bottom of the scan options list. Microsoft Defender will immediately begin checking your system for threats.
6. Review scan results. Once the progress bar reaches completion, the interface will display the number of files scanned and any detected threats. If threats are found, follow the on-screen prompts to quarantine or remove them.