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 to scan your PC for potential threats.
Downloading the Microsoft Safety Scanner
The first step is to download the appropriate version of the Microsoft Safety Scanner for your system. Microsoft offers separate downloads for 32-bit (x86) and 64-bit (x64) Windows versions. Choosing the correct version is crucial for optimal performance. You can determine your system type by searching for “System Information” in the Windows search bar.
Once you’ve identified your system type, navigate to the official Microsoft Safety Scanner download page and download the corresponding version. Remember the location where you save the downloaded file.
Running the Microsoft Safety Scanner
Since the Microsoft Safety Scanner is a portable executable, there’s no installation process. Simply locate the downloaded msert.exe file and double-click it to run the program.
You’ll be prompted to accept the Microsoft Software License Terms. After accepting the terms, you can choose from three different scan types:
- Quick scan: This option scans the most common areas where malware typically resides. It’s the fastest option but may not detect all threats.
- Full scan: This option scans your entire system, including all files and folders. It takes significantly longer but provides a more comprehensive scan.
- Custom scan: This option allows you to select specific folders or drives to scan.
Select the scan type that best suits your needs and click “Next” to begin the scanning process. The scanner will then begin searching for malware and other potential threats. The scan duration will vary depending on your chosen scan type and the size of your hard drive.
Reviewing Scan Results
Once the scan is complete, the Microsoft Safety Scanner will display a summary of its findings. This summary will include the number of threats detected and any actions taken. For a more detailed report, you can view the log file located at %SYSTEMROOT%debugmsert.log.
If threats are found, the Safety Scanner will attempt to remove or quarantine them. You may be prompted to restart your computer to complete the removal process.
Important Considerations
Remember that the Microsoft Safety Scanner is not a replacement for real-time antivirus software. It’s designed for on-demand scanning and should be used in conjunction with a comprehensive security solution. Also, the downloaded file expires after 10 days, requiring you to download a fresh copy for subsequent scans. To ensure you have the latest protection, always download the newest version before each use. Finally, although the tool is powerful, it might not resolve all malware issues. For persistent or complex threats, consult a professional for assistance.
