using-the-microsoft-safety-scanner-in-windows-8

Microsoft has included a handful of security tools in Windows 8. You have the Windows Defender, the Microsoft Security Essentials suite, and Windows Family Live. Microsoft also has a free on-demand scanner available to find centralized problems. In Windows 8, you can use the Microsoft Safety Scanner to check for spot problems with your system, such as Trojans, exploits, and worms.

Our guide will show you how to use the Microsoft Safety Scanner in Windows 8.

How to use the Microsoft Safety Scanner in Windows 8

The Microsoft Safety Scanner doesn’t come automatically with an install of Windows 8.

You need to head to its website to start downloading it.

downloading

Click “Download Now.”

choosing-the-right-download

You want to ensure you are downloading the right version based on your operating system, either 32-bit or 64-bit. Click the right version and wait for the download to finish.

Once finished, click on the Microsoft Safety Scanner to start the scan.

reading-through-the-license-agreement

After reading through the license agreement for using the Microsoft Safety Scanner, click the box to accept the terms and click “Next.”

warning-about-use

The Microsoft Safety Scanner will warn you that its scan is not the solution for all malware, spyware and more you could have on your computer. It’s a tool that should be used in conjunction with anti-virus and spyware removal software.

Click “Next.”

choosing-your-scan

Now, you can choose the type of scan you want. You can choose a quick, full or custom scan. If this is the first time using the tool, click “Full scan.” If not, you can choose the other scans as you see fit.

Then, click “Next” when ready to start scanning your system for issues.

scanning-your-computer

Depending on the scan choice, the Microsoft Safety Scanner will take some time. Let it do its job.

finishing-the-scan

When the scan is finished, you’ll be given the results. If you’re computer’s free from issues in the Microsoft Safety Scanner, you’ll want to scan it with another anti-virus or spyware program just to be sure.

Microsoft Safety Scanner is easy to use, on-demand utility that every Windows 8 users should utilize with other programs they’re using to secure their computer from harm online.

How often should you use the Microsoft Safety Scanner in Windows 8?

If you suspect an isolated incident on your computer, the Microsoft Safety Scanner can be an additional tool to rooting out the problem. When coupled with an anti-virus program using real-time protection and spyware removal tools, the Microsoft Safety Scanner can spot check issues and perhaps even narrow down the issue before more traditional means can.

Download the Microsoft Safety Scanner.