Microsoft Defender Antivirus, formerly known as Windows Defender and now integrated into Windows Security since the Windows 10 November 2019 Update, has evolved dramatically. With fewer false positives, intuitive controls, and superior malware detection, it's my top recommendation over many paid alternatives. As someone who's tested countless security tools, I no longer advise disabling it. Here are proven tips to help you get started effectively.
Contents
1. How to enable/disable Microsoft Defender
2. How to add exceptions/exclusions or whitelist in Microsoft Defender
3. How to perform a quick/full scan in Microsoft Defender
4. How to schedule scanning in Microsoft Defender
5. How to update Microsoft Defender
Microsoft Defender is expanding to Android and iOS soon—exciting times ahead. Let's dive into these practical tips.
Note: Windows Defender was set to rebrand as Microsoft Defender following a Windows 10 update in the coming months.
Knowing how to toggle it can resolve app conflicts or aid troubleshooting—steps I take often in my work. I've detailed disabling it previously, but only do so with a trusted third-party alternative.
It's enabled by default unless a third-party antivirus takes over, which automatically disables it to avoid conflicts. Running two AVs simultaneously isn't recommended. Uninstalling third-party software reactivates Defender. For enterprises, check official docs.
Launch Windows Security and select Virus & threat protection. Under Managed settings, enable real-time protection, cloud-delivered protection, automatic sample submission, and tamper protection for full coverage.
App or site conflicts? Whitelist trusted sources only after verifying they're safe.
Hit Windows + I, go to Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection, then Manage settings.
Under Exclusions, select Add or remove exclusions.
Click Add an exclusion for file, folder, type, or process.
Follow prompts. If Manage settings is missing, update Windows or check admin rights—see our guides on updates and user accounts. Desktop users: contact IT.
Search and open Windows Security from Start.
Go to Virus & threat protection for Quick scan, or Scan options for Full or Custom.
From Command Prompt (run as admin):
Navigate to C:\Program Files\Windows Defender, then run:
MpCmdRun.exe -Scan -1Monitor progress in the open window.
Open Task Scheduler from Start.
Navigate: Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows > Microsoft Defender.
Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows > Microsoft Defender
Select Windows Defender Scheduled Scan, go to Triggers tab, click New (or double-click for popup).
Set your schedule.
Via Settings > Update & Security for OS and Defender updates—review changelogs first to avoid issues.
Or in Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Check for updates manually.
Microsoft Defender has matured into a robust tool within Windows Security. For most, it shines out-of-the-box. Pair it with Malwarebytes for malware detection alongside Defender's virus focus—they complement perfectly for layered defense.
Bonus: Samsung phone + Windows 10 PC? Check our guide to unlock your PC with your smartphone.