Applies ToWindows 11 Windows 10
The Windows Security app is a comprehensive security solution integrated into Windows, designed to protect your device and data from various threats. It includes features such as Microsoft Defender Antivirus, Windows Firewall, and Smart App Control, which work together to provide real-time protection against viruses, malware, and other security threats. The app is built into Windows, ensuring that your device is protected from the moment you start it up.
Tip: If you’re a Microsoft 365 Family or Personal subscriber you get Microsoft Defender, our advanced security software for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, as part of your subscription. Learn more at Getting started with Microsoft Defender.
One of the key benefits of the Windows Security app is its ability to provide real-time protection. Microsoft Defender Antivirus continuously scans your device for potential threats and takes immediate action to neutralize them. This proactive approach helps to prevent malware infections and keeps your device running smoothly. Additionally, the firewall feature monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, blocking any suspicious activity to safeguard your data and privacy.
To open the Windows Security app , search for it in the Start menu, or use the following shortcut:
Windows Security
Common tasks
Here’s a brief list of common tasks that you can carry out from the Windows Security app. Expand each section to learn more:
If you’re worried about a specific file or folder on your local device, you can right-click the file or folder in File Explorer, then select Scan with Microsoft Defender.
Tip: On Windows 11 you may have to select Show more options after you right-click to see the option to scan the file or folder.
If you suspect there’s malware or a virus on your device, you should immediately run a quick scan.
In the Windows Security app on your PC, select Virus & threat protection > Quick scan or use the following shortcut:
Start a quick scan
If the scan doesn’t find any issues, but you’re still concerned, you may want to check your device more thoroughly.
Sometimes you might need to briefly stop running real-time protection. While real-time protection is off, files you open or download won’t be scanned for threats. However, real-time protection will soon turn on automatically again to protect your device.
In the Windows Security app on your PC, select Virus & threat protection > Manage settings or use the following shortcut:
Virus & threat protection settings
You can turn Real-time protection On or Off using the toggle button.
To learn more about the Windows Security app and all its features, see Windows Security App Overview.
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In Windows 10 v1703 and later, you will see a new white shield icon in the notification area of your Taskbar. This belongs to the newly introduced Windows Defender Security Center. With Windows Defender Security Center featuring in the Windows 10 Creators Update, you can expect your Windows system to be more robust and secure.
Right-click on the icon and click Select to open the Windows Defender Security Center.
In the Windows 10 Creators Update, we will introduce a new experience called the Windows Defender Security Center to make it is easier for you to view and control the security protections you choose and better understand the security features already protecting you on your Windows 10 device. Windows Insiders can explore this experience now under All Apps in the Start Menu and provide feedback through the Insider Feedback hub, writes Rob Lefferts, Partner Director, Windows & Devices Group, Security & Enterprise.
The tool will act as a dashboard for all of your security features, including third-party security to give a clearer view of any risks your PC may face. It’s been specially designed to simplify and unify all the various security settings of Windows in the same place.
The tool will include the following five sections to give users complete control over their device security, health, and online safety experiences.
Virus & threat protection
You can launch your 3rd party AV protection app directly from this screen. Also, all scan results and threat history will be displayed under this section.
In Windows 10 v1709, you can use Controlled Folder Access to protect your data against ransomware attacks. You will find the settings here under Virus & threat protection section.
Device performance & health
Monitors battery life and storage capacity. Gives a complete view of your latest Windows updates, drivers. The setting will also offer an option to restore or refresh Windows. These details do not fall under ‘security’ category, however, reveals valuable information that might hint something going wrong.
If an issue that requires your attention is found, you will see a yellow exclamation mark icon overlay on the shield icon.
It could be some device issue that may warrant your intervention. Opening the Windows Defender Security Center and clicking on View Health Report button will tell you what requires to be done.
In my case there appeared to be an issue with a device driver.
Clicking on Open Troubleshooter opened the Hardware Troubleshooter. I ran it and a driver issue was fixed.
Read: Difference between Microsoft Defender, Windows Defender, Windows Security, Windows Defender Firewall
Firewall & network protection
Manages Windows Firewall settings, as well as links to network troubleshooting information. In addition, it also provides information on local networks, similar to the info users currently find in the ‘Network and sharing center’ control panel option.
App & browser control
Enables adjustments in settings of SmartScreen for apps and browsers, thereby keeping you informed about online warnings.
Family Options
Also, there are Family Options that help you view the health and safety of your family’s devices from a centralized location. The page also lets you configure options for parental controls and options for habits, the activity of your kids’ online activity or manage controls for limiting access to purchasing games and apps online.
Settings
Clicking on the Settings icon in the bottom left corner will open its settings, where you will be able to toggle the Windows Defender and Windows Firewall notifications.
Clicking on Virus & threat protection settings will open another page where you will be able to configure Windows Defender’s settings.
If you wish, you can also disable the Windows Defender Security Center taskbar icon.
The Security Center also increases support for Windows Hello, the popular and renowned facial recognition and biometric feature of Windows 10 that offers security in different forms (face or fingerprint).
Windows Defender Security Center itself does not add any new features to Windows Defender but simply collects many of the pre-existing Windows security and privacy settings and makes them easily accessible to you. When all is good it will display the green check mark on the white shield icon. If something requires your attention, it will display a red cross sign.
This post shows how you can harden Windows Defender protection to the highest levels on Windows 10 v1703 by changing a few Group Policy settings.
Anand Khanse is the Admin of TheWindowsClub.com, a 10-year Microsoft MVP (2006-16) & a Windows Insider MVP (2016-2022). Please read the entire post & the comments first, create a System Restore Point before making any changes to your system & be careful about any 3rd-party offers while installing freeware.
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Security threats are some of the leading concerns our customers have with technology today and that’s why we’ve built Windows 10 to be the most secure version of Windows ever. With comprehensive, built-in security features, Windows 10 provides protection from viruses and malware threats including ransomware, safer authentication with Windows Hello using your smile or fingerprint to login and ongoing security updates delivered monthly through Windows Update, to name a few.
But you don’t need to be a security expert to help secure your device and understand the protections you have in place.
In the Windows 10 Creators Update, we will introduce a new experience called the Windows Defender Security Center to make it is easier for you to view and control the security protections you choose and better understand the security features already protecting you on your Windows 10 device. Windows Insiders can explore this experience now under All Apps in the Start Menu and provide feedback through the Insider Feedback hub.
https://youtu.be/QE-3zbvtdKI
Windows Defender program manager Shekhar Saxena explains the security features and controls available in the new Windows Defender Security Center app coming with the Windows 10 Creators Update.
The Windows Defender Security Center includes five pillars that give you control and visibility of your device security, health and online safety experiences.
Virus & threat protection provides a new view of your antivirus protection whether it’s Windows Defender Antivirus that comes free with Windows 10 or AV software from one of our ecosystem partners. If you’ve chosen Windows Defender Antivirus, your scan results and threat history will be displayed here, or you will be able to launch your 3rd party AV protection app directly from this screen.
Device performance & health provides a single view of your latest Windows updates, drivers, battery life and storage capacity. Additionally, you have the option to start fresh with a clean install of Windows using the Refresh Windows feature. This option will keep your personal files and some Windows settings, and remove most of your apps for a fresh start that can help with performance improvements should your device need them.
Firewall & network protection provides information on the network connections and active Windows Firewall settings, as well as links to network troubleshooting information.
App & browser control allows you to adjust settings for SmartScreen for apps and browsers helping you be more informed and stay safer online by warning you of potential malicious sites, downloads and unrecognized apps and files from the Internet.
Family options gives you an easy way to connect to the family options available online. This page can link you to information about parental controls, options for setting up good screen time habits, setting up activity reports of your kids’ online activity and managing controls for purchasing apps and games. You can also view the health and safety of your family’s devices from this centralized location.
Our goal with the new Windows Defender Security Center is to help you become more informed and make safety simple. It is equally important to us that you are protected by default and continuously protected – never giving the bad guys an opportunity to harm you. This new experience naturally supports customer choice in selecting an AV product. In addition, if your subscription or paid antivirus software should expire, Windows Defender Antivirus will kick in to provide protection by default until you take further action. Finally, it is important to ensure that you are in control of your PC. Windows 10 respects your freedom to choose protection software and services that you like best.
We believe the new Windows Defender Security Center lives up to these principles and we are committed to working with you, as well as security experts and organizations throughout the technology industry to create safer experiences for everyone with Windows 10.
*Windows Hello requires specialized hardware, including fingerprint reader, illuminated IR sensor or other biometric sensors and capable devices.
Ensuring the security of your Windows operating system is paramount in today’s digital age. With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, it’s important to have a robust security solution in place. One such solution is the Windows Defender Security Center, a powerful tool that provides comprehensive protection against malware, viruses, and other online threats.
Windows Defender Security Center is an integral part of the Windows 10 operating system and offers a range of features to safeguard your computer. From real-time scanning and automatic threat detection to firewall management and parental controls, this security center is designed to keep your system secure. With regular updates and continuous improvements, getting Windows Defender Security Center ensures that your computer stays protected in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
To get Windows Defender Security Center on your Windows system, follow these steps:
1. Open the Start menu and click on the Settings icon.
2. In the Settings menu, select “Update & Security”.
3. Click on the “Windows Security” option from the left sidebar.
4. You will now be in the Windows Defender Security Center, where you can access and manage various security features.
What is Windows Defender Security Center?
Windows Defender Security Center is a built-in security application in Windows 10 that provides comprehensive protection against various types of threats such as viruses, malware, and other malicious software. It combines multiple security features and tools into a single interface, making it easier for users to manage their device’s security settings and stay protected.
Windows Defender Security Center offers real-time protection, automatic scans, firewall monitoring, device performance optimization, and more. It continuously monitors your device for potential threats and provides alerts and recommendations to help you maintain a secure computing environment. In addition to protecting your system from traditional types of malware, Windows Defender Security Center also includes advanced features such as ransomware protection and exploit protection.
Getting Windows Defender Security Center on your Windows 10 device is essential to ensure your device and data are protected from the ever-evolving threats in the digital world. In this article, we will guide you on how to access and use the Windows Defender Security Center to maximize your device’s security.
Note: This article is specifically for Windows 10 users as Windows Defender Security Center is built into the operating system. If you are using an earlier version of Windows or a different operating system, you may have a different security solution installed on your device.
Accessing Windows Defender Security Center
Accessing the Windows Defender Security Center on your device is a straightforward process. Follow the steps below to open the Windows Defender Security Center:
- Click on the «Start» button in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
- From the Start menu, select «Settings» (the gear icon) to open the Settings app.
- In the Settings app, click on the «Update & Security» option.
- In the left-hand side menu, click on «Windows Security.»
- Windows Defender Security Center will open, displaying the various security features and tools available.
Alternatively, you can also access Windows Defender Security Center by searching for it in the Windows search bar. Simply type «Windows Defender Security Center» and click on the corresponding result to open the application.
Once you have accessed the Windows Defender Security Center, you can explore the different sections and settings to ensure your device is protected to the fullest extent.
Understanding the Dashboard
The Windows Defender Security Center dashboard provides an overview of your device’s security status. It displays information about the different security features and alerts you might need to address. Here are some key elements of the dashboard:
- Protection Updates: This section shows the date of the last update to the virus and threat definitions. It is crucial to keep these definitions up to date to ensure protection against the latest threats.
- Device Performance & Health: This section provides information about your device’s overall health, including storage capacity, battery life, and other performance-related aspects.
- Firewall & Network Protection: This section allows you to configure and monitor your device’s firewall settings and network connections.
- App & Browser Control: Here, you can manage and control the security settings for your applications and web browsers, including protection against potentially harmful downloads.
- Virus & Threat Protection: This section gives you an overview of the most recent scan results, allows you to perform manual scans, and displays controls for various threat protection settings.
- Device Security: In this section, you can access additional security features such as Windows Hello and BitLocker Drive Encryption.
Understanding the dashboard layout is important as it provides you with valuable information about your device’s security and allows you to take appropriate actions.
Performing Scans and Removing Threats
Windows Defender Security Center allows you to perform various types of scans to detect and remove threats from your device. Follow these steps to initiate a scan:
- Open the Windows Defender Security Center following the steps mentioned above.
- In the dashboard, click on «Virus & Threat Protection,» and then select «Quick Scan» or «Full Scan» depending on your preference.
- The scan will start, and Windows Defender will automatically detect and remove any threats it finds.
- If you want more scanning options, click on «Scan Options» under the «Virus & Threat Protection» section. Here, you can choose specific folders or files to scan or schedule regular scans.
In addition to the automatic scans, Windows Defender Security Center also provides options for performing offline scans, analyzing potentially unwanted applications, and managing quarantine items. These options can be accessed through the corresponding sections in the application.
Configuring Windows Defender Settings
Windows Defender Security Center allows you to configure various settings to customize your device’s security. Here are some important settings you can adjust:
- Real-time Protection: Toggle this option on or off to enable or disable real-time scanning for downloaded files and opened programs.
- Cloud-delivered Protection: Enable this setting to allow Windows Defender to use cloud-based protection and analysis to detect and respond to new threats quickly.
- Automatic Sample Submission: Decide whether you want to share potentially harmful files with Microsoft to help improve threat intelligence.
- Controlled Folder Access: Protect important folders from unauthorized changes by enabling this feature.
- Tamper Protection: Prevent unauthorized changes to Windows Defender settings by enabling tamper protection.
- Notifications & Actions: Customize the type and frequency of notifications you receive from Windows Defender Security Center.
By configuring these settings, you can adapt Windows Defender Security Center to your specific needs and enhance your overall security.
Updating Windows Defender
Keeping Windows Defender up to date ensures that your device remains protected against the latest threats. Windows Defender Security Center automatically updates its virus and threat definitions, but you can also perform manual updates to ensure you have the most recent protection.
Here’s how to manually update Windows Defender:
- Open the Windows Defender Security Center.
- Click on «Virus & Threat Protection» in the dashboard.
- In the Virus & Threat Protection section, click on «Protection Updates.»
- Click on the «Check for Updates» button to initiate a manual update.
Windows Defender will then check for new updates and download and install them if available.
Using Windows Defender Security Center for a Secure Computing Experience
Windows Defender Security Center is an essential component of Windows 10 that provides comprehensive protection against various threats. By accessing and utilizing the security features and tools within the Windows Defender Security Center, you can ensure a secure computing experience for yourself.
Remember to regularly perform scans, keep your device’s security settings up to date, and stay informed about the latest security recommendations. With Windows Defender Security Center, you have the necessary tools to combat threats and protect your device and data from harm.
Getting Windows Defender Security Center
Windows Defender Security Center is a built-in security application for Windows 10 that helps protect your computer from viruses, malware, and other threats. To get Windows Defender Security Center, follow these steps:
- Open the Start menu and click on the gear icon to open the Settings app.
- In the Settings app, click on «Update & Security.»
- In the Update & Security settings, click on «Windows Security.»
- Click on «Open Windows Security.»
- The Windows Defender Security Center will open, displaying the current status of your device’s security.
Once you have accessed Windows Defender Security Center, you can use its various features to scan for viruses, manage your firewall settings, control app and browser behavior, and keep your device secure.
Key Takeaways — How to Get Windows Defender Security Center
- Windows Defender Security Center is pre-installed on Windows 10 devices.
- To access Windows Defender Security Center, click on the Start menu and search for «Windows Security».
- In the search results, click on «Windows Security» to open the app.
- From the Windows Security app, you can access all the security features and settings.
- Windows Defender Security Center provides real-time protection against viruses and malware.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding how to get Windows Defender Security Center:
1. Can I download Windows Defender Security Center?
Windows Defender Security Center is a built-in security feature in Windows 10, so you do not need to download it separately. It comes pre-installed with the operating system.
If you are using an older version of Windows or are unable to find Windows Defender Security Center on your system, you may need to update your operating system to Windows 10.
2. How do I access Windows Defender Security Center?
To access Windows Defender Security Center:
1. Click on the Start button located at the bottom left corner of your screen.
2. Type «Windows Defender Security Center» in the search bar and select the top result.
3. The Windows Defender Security Center window will open, providing you with access to various security features and settings.
3. How do I enable Windows Defender Security Center?
Windows Defender Security Center is usually enabled by default on Windows 10. However, if it is disabled, you can enable it by following these steps:
1. Click on the Start button and open the Settings app.
2. In the Settings app, click on «Update & Security».
3. From the left sidebar, select «Windows Security».
4. In the Windows Security settings, click on «Open Windows Security».
5. The Windows Defender Security Center will open, and you can enable various security features from there.
4. Can I use Windows Defender Security Center with other antivirus programs?
Windows Defender Security Center is designed to work hand-in-hand with Windows Defender, which is the built-in antivirus program in Windows 10. It provides comprehensive security against malware and other threats.
While it is possible to use other antivirus programs in conjunction with Windows Defender Security Center, it is generally recommended to use only one antivirus program at a time to avoid conflicts and potential compatibility issues.
5. How do I update Windows Defender Security Center?
Windows Defender Security Center is regularly updated by Microsoft as part of the Windows Update process. To ensure you have the latest version of Windows Defender Security Center:
1. Click on the Start button and open the Settings app.
2. In the Settings app, click on «Update & Security».
3. Click on «Check for updates».
4. If there are any updates available, Windows will download and install them automatically, including updates for Windows Defender Security Center.
To sum up, getting Windows Defender Security Center is a simple and straightforward process. By following a few steps, you can ensure that your computer is protected against malware, viruses, and other security threats.
First, make sure you have Windows 10 installed on your computer. Then, open the Start menu and type «Windows Defender Security Center» in the search bar. Click on the app when it appears in the results. Once the Security Center is open, you can access all the necessary tools and features to keep your system secure.
On Windows 10, Microsoft includes a free antivirus solution known as Windows Defender to help keep viruses and malware threats, even ransomware, out of your device. On the Windows 10 Creators Update, the software giant is taking Windows Defender one step further introducing a new experience which carries the Windows Defender Security Center name.
Windows Defender Security Center is a new experience that makes it easier for non-technical users to view and control the security of the features that protect your Windows 10 device.
In the new dashboard, you’ll not only be able to manage the Windows Defender Antivirus, but it’ll give you status and alert on different security categories, health and performance, firewall, app and browser control, and family options. You’ll even get notifications on action that need to been taken to secure your device.
Virus & threat protection
In this section is where you can view Windows Defender Antivirus scan history, any threat found on your device, and take action to remove the threat. In addition, you can run quick or advanced scans on your computer, change settings, and check for updates as necessary.
If you have a third-party antivirus, you’ll be able to launch it from this page.
Device performance & health
This is the section where you can take any action related on your device performance. In this page, you can view health report on Windows Update, drivers, battery life, and storage capacity.
Here you’ll also find a new option to start fresh with a clean install of Windows 10 using the Refresh Windows feature. Using this feature, you can reinstall the operating system with the latest update, while keeping your files and some of your settings when your device isn’t working correctly.
Firewall & network protection
This section provides information on the network connections, and you can manage the Windows Firewall settings. Additionally, you get links to troubleshoot network related problems, but keep in mind that you’ll still need to use the Settings app to change other related network and internet settings.
App & browser control
Here you can manage your Windows Defender SmartScreen Filter settings to protect your computer from malicious sites and downloads when using Microsoft Edge or apps that use web content.
Family options
In this page is where you can access parental control options, including setting up good screen time habits, setting up activity reports of your kids’ online activity and managing controls for purchasing apps and games.
You can also monitor the health and safety of your family devices from one centralized location.
As you can see Windows Defender Security Center replaces the old Windows Defender dashboard and brings an entire new experience to keep your device secure.
The goal is to keep your device protected from the first time you boot your device, but you can always opt to get a different security product. In addition, if your subscription or paid antivirus solution should expire, Windows Defender Antivirus will enable automatically on your device to keep you protected until you get a new subscription or install a different solution.
What do you think about Windows Defender Security Center? Tell us in the comments below.