Exploring Malware Detection on Windows 10

Suddenly, on a fine day, you notice your computer acting slower than usual, constantly displaying pop-up advertising windows. These signs indicate the possibility of your computer being infected with malware, malicious software. In this article, Mytour will guide you on how to scan for Malware on Windows 10.

Method 1: Utilize Windows Defender

The first solution to scan for malware, malicious software on Windows 10, is to use Windows Defender, antivirus software inherently integrated into Windows 10.

Windows Defender operates by scanning threats such as adware, spyware, and viruses. Activating Windows Defender helps prevent and limit the damage caused by malware.

Activate, Turn On Windows Defender

Open Windows Settings, then navigate to Update and Security =>Windows Security. In the Protection Areas section, choose Virus & Threat Protection.

At this point, a pop-up window will appear on the screen, containing a list of security options. Click on Virus & Threat Protection. Then, click on Manage Settings under the Virus & Threat Protection Settings section. Locate and toggle the Real-Time Protection slider to ON.

Once activated, Windows Defender will automatically scan for malware, malicious software on your computer.

Note: Windows Defender is not available on Windows 7 and 8.

Is relying solely on Windows Defender enough?

The answer is no; Windows Defender is suitable for average users. If you seek a more potent solution, consider using third-party software and applications for enhanced effectiveness.

Third-party solutions, such as Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, offer more protection options and can meet your specific requirements.

Download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to your computer and install it from this link.

Method 2: Diagnose the presence of malware on Windows 10

There are various methods to diagnose the presence of malware on a Windows 10 computer. Below are some approaches you can apply:

Boot Windows 10 into Safe Mode

Windows computers come with a mode called Safe Mode. Booting the computer into this mode loads only essential programs, preventing malware from running. If your computer operates more smoothly and efficiently in Safe Mode, it indicates that your computer may be infected with malware, malicious software.

To initiate Safe Mode, access Start =>Power button. Press and hold the Shift key, simultaneously click Restart. Once the computer restarts, you can access Safe Mode.

Additionally, readers can refer to the article Starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode on Mytour for more detailed instructions.

While in Safe Mode, if you wish to delete temporary files, simply enter Disk Cleanup in the Search box, click to open the utility from the search results. Use the Disk Cleanup tool to remove old files on your computer.

Utilize third-party antivirus software

If you feel that your current antivirus solution is not cutting it, it's time to consider installing and using more effective virus scanning applications and software.

There are various antivirus applications and software available in the market, both free and paid. Generally, paid applications are always considered to be 'better' than free ones. Consider choosing and installing the application that you find most suitable.

Check out the article on the top antivirus software of 2019 on Mytour to explore the best antivirus and malware protection software available today.

Browser Installation

Malicious software or malware can access and modify your browser settings, such as changing the homepage to redirect to malicious websites, stealing data, or displaying pop-up ads.

The solution is to check your browser settings as early as possible to prevent potential harm.

- Microsoft Edge Browser:

To modify Edge browser settings, go to Settings => More => Settings. From the Open Microsoft Edge With menu, select A Specific Page or pages.

Check the URLs in the list and remove unfamiliar domains.

- Google Chrome Browser:

Open the Chrome browser, click on the 3-dot icon in the top-right corner, select Settings. Scroll down to find the On Startup section, choose Open a Specific Page or Set of Pages.

Remove unfamiliar domains from the list.

Method 3: Resetting Windows 10

In certain situations, users may find it necessary to reset their computers to thoroughly scan and eliminate malware, and malicious software. However, before proceeding with the steps, ensure that you have backed up essential files on your computer.

Access Settings => Update & Security => Recovery. In the Reset This PC section, choose Get Started. Two options will be displayed on the screen for you:

- Option Keep My Files: formats the computer without deleting files and data.

- Option Remove Everything: will delete all files and data.

Note: by using this method, you can eliminate malware, malicious software, and viruses at the root on your Windows 10 computer, but there is a high risk of losing files and settings.

Follow the on-screen steps until Windows 10 displays the reset notification for your PC.

This Mytour article has just guided you through some methods to scan for malware on Windows 10. Additionally, if you are using a MacBook and are unsure how to scan and remove malware on Mac, you can refer to the article on how to remove malware on Mac on Mytour for further guidance.