Nov. 24, 2024, midnight

How to Run an Antivirus Scan

Keeping your computer safe from malware and other threats is crucial. Running an antivirus scan is a key part of protecting your system. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open Your Antivirus Program

First, locate and open your antivirus software. This might be an icon on your desktop or in your start menu.

2. Update Your Antivirus

Before running a scan, ensure your antivirus definitions are up to date. Most programs have an update option in their settings menu.

3. Choose a Scan Type

Most antivirus programs offer several types of scans:

  • Quick Scan: Checks the most common areas for threats.
  • Full Scan: Examines your entire system, but takes longer.
  • Custom Scan: Allows you to choose specific files or folders to scan.

4. Run the Scan

Once you've selected the scan type, start the scan. This process could take from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the type of scan and your system’s performance.

5. Review Scan Results

After the scan completes, review the results. Your antivirus program will list any threats found and suggest actions, such as deleting or quarantining the files.

6. Follow Recommendations

It's important to follow the recommendations provided by your antivirus program to remove or isolate any detected threats.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter issues running a scan, try restarting your computer, ensuring your antivirus is properly installed, or checking for software updates. If the problem persists, consult your antivirus software’s support resources.

Regularly running antivirus scans is a proactive way to protect your computer and personal data from potential threats. Make it a habit to scan your system periodically.