Instructions for scheduling Microsoft Defender scans on Windows

Microsoft Defender is a free antivirus program built into Windows. By default, Defender scans your computer when you're not actively using it, so it won't slow down your machine. However, you can choose specific times for the scan to run. This way, the scan will run at the most convenient time. Below are instructions on how to schedule a Microsoft Defender scan on Windows 11.

 

How to schedule a Microsoft Defender scan on Windows 11

Step 1:

To access it , type "Task Scheduler" into the search bar . Then, expand the Task Scheduler Library list on the left side of the screen and select Microsoft > Windows, as shown in the image.

Step 2:

Continue searching and click on the Windows Defender folder .

 

Step 3:

Looking at the management section in the middle, we double-click on Windows Defender Scheduled Scan .

Step 4:

A new interface will appear; click on Triggers to proceed. Then click New at the bottom to continue.

Here you can select the time you want to schedule a scan for Microsoft Defender .

We choose the daily scan date, the starting date, and the time for the Microsoft Defender scan.

You can also set up other sections as shown in the image. Finally, press OK to save.

Microsoft Defender will scan your computer at times you set up, helping to protect your computer without interrupting your work.