Access Windows Defender in Windows 8

Windows Defender is a built-in program for Windows 8 that helps keep your computer safe from malware and other threats. It also comes with real-time protection to prevent infection as soon as it is downloaded to your computer.

Steps

  1. Open the "Start" screen in Windows with the Windows key and type in "Windows Defender."
    • In Windows 8, you can narrow down the search by selecting the "Apps" option right under the Search window.
  2. Select "Windows Defender" from the results that appear. It's the one with the Castle Wall icon.
  3. Select the type of Scan you want to perform. For instance, select "Quick" and then click "Scan Now" to start the scan.
  4. Check to see whether the software is up to date. Click on the "Update" tab, then click the "Update" button to upgrade to the latest version.
  5. Click on the "Settings" tab and check "Turn on real time protection" to help prevent threats. Click "Save changes" to keep your settings.

Tips

  • You can also click on the "History" tab to see past Windows Defender actions.

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