Microsoft Safety Scanner is a free, on-demand virus and malware scanner for Windows. It’s a portable tool, meaning it doesn’t require installation and can be run directly from a USB drive or other external storage. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough on how to download and use the Microsoft Safety Scanner on Windows 7.
While Microsoft Safety Scanner is a powerful tool for detecting and removing threats, it’s important to remember it’s not a replacement for real-time antivirus protection. It’s designed for occasional use and doesn’t offer the continuous monitoring and protection of a dedicated antivirus program.
Downloading Microsoft Safety Scanner
Before you can run a scan, you need to download the latest version of the Microsoft Safety Scanner. Here’s how:
- Navigate to the Official Download Page: Visit the official Microsoft website to download the Safety Scanner. Ensure you download the correct version (32-bit or 64-bit) for your Windows 7 system.
- Choose the Correct Version: Determine whether your Windows 7 installation is 32-bit or 64-bit. This information can usually be found in System Properties (accessible by right-clicking “My Computer” and selecting “Properties”).
- Download the Executable File: Click the appropriate download link (32-bit or 64-bit). The file will be named “msert.exe”. Save the file to a convenient location, such as your Downloads folder or a USB drive.
Running a Scan with Microsoft Safety Scanner
Once you’ve downloaded the Microsoft Safety Scanner, follow these steps to run a scan:
- Locate and Run the Executable: Navigate to the location where you saved “msert.exe” and double-click the file to run it. You may need to confirm User Account Control permissions.
- Accept the License Agreement: Read and accept the Microsoft Software License Terms to proceed.
- Choose a Scan Type: Select the type of scan you wish to perform:
- Quick Scan: Scans the most common areas where malware is typically found. This is the fastest option.
- Full Scan: Scans your entire system. This takes longer but is more thorough.
- Custom Scan: Allows you to select specific folders or drives to scan.
- Start the Scan: Click “Next” to begin the scanning process. The scan duration will depend on the scan type and the size of your hard drive.
Reviewing Scan Results and Removing Threats
After the scan is complete, Microsoft Safety Scanner will display a summary of any detected threats. You can then choose to remove or quarantine the identified malware. The tool will attempt to reverse changes made by the malware.
Remember that Microsoft Safety Scanner expires 10 days after download. For subsequent scans, download a fresh copy of the tool to ensure you have the latest malware definitions.
Important Considerations
Microsoft Safety Scanner is a valuable tool for addressing potential malware infections on Windows 7. However, consider these key points:
- Not a Replacement for Antivirus: This tool should not be used as a substitute for a real-time antivirus program.
- Expiration: The downloaded file expires after 10 days. Redownload before each use for the most up-to-date protection.
- Manual Execution: Scans must be initiated manually. There is no automatic scanning functionality.
By following these steps, you can effectively utilize Microsoft Safety Scanner to enhance the security of your Windows 7 system. Remember to always practice safe browsing habits and keep your system updated to minimize the risk of malware infections.
