How to Manually Scan Files, Folders, and Drives for Malware in Windows 10

If you’ve been watching the news surrounding recent cyberattacks, you know that malware poses a significant threat to personal data and system security. While automated protection runs continuously in the background, knowing how to perform manual scans is crucial for maintaining optimal system health.

This guide will walk you through the process of manually scanning for malware in Windows 10 and help you understand when and how to use these tools effectively.

How to use Windows Security for manual scans

Windows 10 comes equipped with Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender), a robust tool for malware detection. To perform a manual scan:

1. Open Windows Security by clicking the shield icon in the taskbar or searching for “Windows Security” in the Start menu
2. Navigate to “Virus & threat protection”
3. Choose your scan type:

• Quick Scan: Checks common malware locations
• Full Scan: Examines all files and running programs
• Custom Scan: Allows selection of specific files or folders

For custom scans, click “Scan options,” select “Custom scan,” and choose the specific locations you want to examine. This option proves particularly useful when checking external drives or downloaded files.

Using third-party antivirus software

While Windows Security provides foundational protection, third-party antivirus solutions offer enhanced features and specialized detection capabilities. Popular options include Norton, McAfee, and Malwarebytes, each bringing unique strengths to malware defense.

Norton excels in real-time threat detection and includes advanced features like a secure VPN and password manager. McAfee offers comprehensive protection across multiple devices and emphasizes user-friendly interfaces. Malwarebytes stands out for its powerful malware removal capabilities and lightweight system impact, making it particularly effective as a supplementary scanning tool.

Running a manual scan with third-party AV software

To perform manual scans using third-party antivirus software:

1. Open your antivirus program from the system tray or Start menu
2. Navigate to the scanning or security section (usually prominently displayed)
3. Select your preferred scan type:
   • Quick Scan: Checks common malware locations (15-20 minutes)
   • Full System Scan: Examines all files and programs (1-4 hours)
   • Custom Scan: Targets specific files, folders, or drives
4. Review scan settings before starting (optional)
5. Launch the scan and monitor its progress
6. Review results and follow recommended actions

Third-party malware scanning considerations

When using non-Microsoft security tools, consider these important factors:

• Compatibility: Ensure the software works properly with your OS version and other security tools like Antivirus for Windows 10. Running multiple real-time protection engines simultaneously can cause conflicts and system instability.
• Update management: Third-party tools require regular updates to both the program and virus definitions. Configure automatic updates to maintain effective protection, and be prepared for more frequent updates compared to Windows Security.
• Resource usage: Different antivirus programs have varying system impacts. Monitor your computer’s performance after installation and during scans. Some programs offer gaming modes or resource-saving features for better system balance.
• Support and reliability: Choose antivirus providers with strong reputations and reliable customer support. Check user reviews and independent testing results to evaluate detection rates and false positive ratios.

When integrating third-party protection, you’ll typically need to disable Windows Security’s real-time protection to prevent conflicts. However, keep Windows Security installed as a backup option. (Most reputable antivirus tools will handle this configuration automatically during installation.)

Interpreting the results of malware scans

After completing a scan, you’ll encounter one of several scenarios:

• Clean result: No threats detected
• Quarantined items: Suspicious files isolated from the system
• Active threats: Malware requiring immediate attention

If malware is detected, follow the recommended actions provided by your security software. This might include:

1. Quarantine the infected files
2. Delete the malware immediately
3. Restore false positives if necessary
4. Run additional scans to ensure complete removal

Understanding malware scanning

Manual scanning provides targeted protection when you suspect a specific file or folder might be compromised. Malware can infiltrate systems through a number of channels, including malicious email attachments, downloaded files, or compromised websites.

Common cyberthreats include trojans that steal personal information, ransomware that encrypts your files, and Cryptojackers that hijack your system resources.

The advantage of manual malware and virus scans over automated protection lies in their precision and control. You can focus on specific areas of concern, perform offline scans when needed, and ensure thorough examination of suspicious content without waiting for scheduled scans.

Essential best practices for malware scanning

Effective malware scanning requires more than just running occasional scans — it demands a systematic approach combined with smart computing habits. Here’s how to maximize your protection through proven scanning practices:

Maintaining your scanning tools

Keep your antivirus definitions current by enabling automatic updates. These definition files contain the latest threat signatures and detection methods, ensuring your security software can identify new malware variants. Most antivirus programs update daily, but manually check for updates before running critical scans.

Schedule full system scans during off-peak hours, such as overnight or during lunch breaks. A good schedule might include:

• Weekly quick scans during work breaks
• Monthly full system scans overnight
• Quarterly offline scans for thorough system checking
• Immediate custom scans for suspicious files

Safe computing practices

Complement your scanning routine with preventive measures:

• Download files only from trusted sources and verify their authenticity
• Be cautious with email attachments, even from known senders
• Use browser extensions that block malicious websites
• Keep your operating system and applications updated
• Enable Windows SmartScreen to check downloaded files automatically

When to run offline scans

Consider performing an offline scan when:

• Your system shows persistent signs of infection despite normal scans
• You suspect rootkit malware that hides from regular scans
• Your antivirus software isn’t functioning correctly
• After recovering from a serious malware infection

Offline scans boot your computer into a clean environment before Windows loads, preventing malware from actively hiding or protecting itself. This makes offline scanning particularly effective against deeply embedded threats that resist normal detection methods.

To perform an offline scan, use Windows Defender Offline or create a bootable antivirus drive from a trusted security vendor. These tools bypass the normal operating system, providing a clean slate for thorough malware detection and removal.

Remember that scanning is your last line of defense — good security habits should come first. Combine regular scans with cautious online behavior to significantly reduce your exposure to malware threats.

Implications of malware detection

Ignoring malware warnings or postponing regular scans can lead to severe consequences, including data loss, identity theft, and system damage. Manual scanning serves as a crucial component of a comprehensive security strategy, complementing real-time protection and safe computing practices.

Malware scanning recommendations

Implement a balanced approach to system security:

• Use Windows Security as your baseline protection
• Consider supplementary protection for sensitive operations
• Maintain regular scanning schedules
• Keep all security software current
• Practice safe browsing habits

Remember that manual scanning represents just one aspect of system security! Combine it with automated protection, regular updates, and careful online behavior to create a robust defense against malware threats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should I manually scan for malware? 

For optimal protection, run quick scans weekly and full system scans monthly. However, you should perform immediate scans when you notice suspicious system behavior, download files from unfamiliar sources, or connect new external storage devices. High-risk users who frequently download files or visit less secure websites may benefit from more frequent scanning.

Is Windows Security sufficient for protection? 

Windows Security provides robust protection for most home users and is constantly updated by Microsoft to address new threats. It offers real-time protection, cloud-based analysis, and integration with Windows 10. However, users handling sensitive data, conducting financial transactions, or requiring specialized protection might benefit from additional third-party security tools that offer advanced features like behavioral analysis or zero-day threat detection.

Can manual scans slow down my system?

Yes, particularly during full system scans, as they require significant processing power and disk access. Quick scans typically have minimal impact on performance. To minimize disruption, schedule intensive scans during periods of low system usage, such as overnight or during lunch breaks. You can also adjust scan settings to limit resource usage, though this may increase scan duration.

What to do if my antivirus software isn’t detecting malware? 

If you suspect malware despite clean scan results, take these steps:

1. Update your antivirus definitions to ensure you have the latest threat detection capabilities
2. Try scanning in Safe Mode to prevent malware from actively hiding
3. Use multiple reputable antimalware tools, as different programs may detect different threats
4. Run an offline scan using Windows Defender Offline or a bootable antivirus tool
5. If problems persist, consult with IT security professionals who can perform more advanced malware analysis

In summary

Manual malware scanning is a crucial piece of your cybersecurity arsenal, complementing automated protection with targeted, user-controlled system evaluations. While automated scans provide continuous protection, manual scanning allows you to investigate suspicious files, verify system health, and ensure thorough security coverage on an as-needed basis.

The ability to perform these scans using both Windows Security and third-party tools is an essential skill for any Windows 10 user. Take action today by running a manual virus scan of your system — it only takes a few minutes and provides valuable peace of mind. Remember that proactive security measures like regular manual scans can mean the difference between a secure system and a compromised one.