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Microsoft's (Free) Windows Antivirus Tools

Windows Virus Infection
Microsoft's (Free) Antivirus Tools
Enable or Disable Windows Defender
Configure Windows Firewall
Windows Virus Removal
Scan Windows for Virus & Bots
MSE Virus Alert Levels
Problem Description:
Windows computer is a major target of viruses and malware. Not surprisingly to help its customers, Microsoft offers a number of free tools that are quite powerful and effective. These tools can not only block infection and intrusion, but also are useful in removing viruses and spyware from your computer.
Affected Products:
Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7, and Windows 8, Windows 8.1 and other versions of Windows.
Cause of the Problem:
  • Open an email attachment with virus infection.
  • Download and install a free program from an unknown publisher.
  • Open a Microsoft Excel or Word document infected.
  • Run a macro hidden in an Excel spreadsheet.
Microsoft's Free Tools for Virus Protection and Removal:
Step 1 : Microsoft Safety Scanner
  1. Microsoft Safety Scanner is a free downloadable security tool that provides on-demand scanning and helps remove viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. It works with your existing antivirus software.
  2. Microsoft's Safety Scanner can be downloaded for free at http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=215204, and runs on all Windows operating system versions.
  3. One thing you need to remember is that Microsoft Safety Scanner expires 10 days after being downloaded. To rerun a scan with the latest anti-malware definitions, you will have to download and run the Microsoft Safety Scanner again.
  4. Microsoft Safety Scanner is not a replacement for more advanced Antivirus Software that continuously and automatically are updated with the latest antivirus signatures.
Step 2 : Microsoft Security Essentials
  1. Microsoft Security Essentials is free Antivirus software for individuals and small businesses. It is Microsoft's free tool for Windows 7 and older versions of Windows. You can download it from http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security-essentials-download.
  2. Once you have installed it, the software updates automatically once a day. The updates include enhancements to the Virus Signature database to block new threats.
  3. Microsoft Security Essentials uses green, yellow and red color codes to designate the security status of your PC. A red or yellow threat, is a serious warning and it comes with recommendation on what to do.
Step 3 : Windows Firewall
  1. Firewall is different than an Antivirus Software such as Microsoft Security Essentials. To help protect your computer, you need both a firewall and an antivirus and anti-malware program.
  2. A Firewall is a software or hardware that checks information coming from the Internet or a network, and then either blocks it or allows it to pass through to your computer, depending on your firewall settings.
  3. A firewall can help prevent hackers from gaining access to your computer through a network or the Internet. A firewall can also help stop your computer from sending malicious software to other computers.
  4. All Windows computers come in with a built-in Firewall called Windows Firewall. You don't have to download or install it. You have to simply enable and configure it by using the Control Panel applet.
Step 4 : Windows Defender
  1. Windows Defender, formerly known as Microsoft AntiSpyware, is a software product that helps combat malware. Windows Defender was initially an antispyware program included with Windows Vista and Windows 7
  2. In Windows 8 this program is preinstalled and is now upgraded to become a full blown antivirus program, essentially replacing Microsoft Security Essentials.
Step 5 : Malicious Software Removal Tool
  1. Microsoft Safety Scanner (MSS) & Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT) serve different purpose.
  2. MSS will review your computer on-demand for any viruses or malware. MSS is a simple tool for concerned users that will check for everything Microsoft knows about.
  3. MSRT is specifically targeted at a small number of malware (specifically common botnets), and is not designed as much to be run manually. Instead, the MSRT is designed primarily for its monthly Windows Update releases, after which it will automatically scan your computer in the background.
  4. If you have Windows Update enabled, MSRT will run once a month automatically. MSRT is an attempt to stop botnets.
If above steps did not help fix your problem, you need assistance from a certified technician. Please call GuruAid at 0800 031 4181.