Windows 8 is the first
version of this operating system to ship with an antivirus/malware
system installed by default. Although “Genuine Windows” users could
download and install Windows Security Essentials with Defender
technology for Windows 7, an upgraded version of this program is now
part of the base install. Windows Defender protects from viruses,
trojans, worms, rootkits, spyware, malware, and other bad guys right
from the start. You can argue that there are more effective packages you
might want to install, but simply keeping Windows Defender on and
updated will keep your computer from turning into a zombie or grinding
to a halt.
To open Windows Defender
Press 
+W to open the Search bar for settings, enter defender in the search box, and click the Windows Defender button to launch the program .
Here comes Windows Defender to save the day.
Windows Defender is on by
default, and the only time you would want to turn it off is when you
install another antivirus program. It’s not a good idea to have two
antivirus programs running at the same time because they tend to step on
each other’s toes. You can turn off Defender by deselecting the Turn On
Real-time Protection check box found on the Settings tab of the Windows
Defender screen.
By default, Windows Defender runs a quick scan
for known viruses, spyware, and unwanted software. Every so often you
will want to run a full scan, which scans all the files on your attached
drives.
I recommend that you run a full system scan of
all of your connected drives about once a month, or whenever your
system acts strangely or is sluggish.
To run a full system scan
Tap or click the Full option in the Scan Options section; then click the Scan Now button.
Tip
The Malicious Software Removal tool detects
viruses, spyware, and other malware. It is used internally by Windows
every so often; for example, when you apply a large system patch or
point upgrade. You can download the current version of the tool from www.microsoft.com/security/pc-security/malware-removal.aspx.
Tip
The site www.safety.live.com
redirects you to the Microsoft Safety Scanner. This is a downloadable
tool that you can use to check your PC for viruses, spyware, and
malware. The tool is free but expires after ten days; you have to
download it again to run it a second time.
