5 Microsoft Defend­er Tips and Tricks to Get Started

If you’re running Windows, you already have a powerful security tool built in—Microsoft Defender. It’s often overlooked in favor of third-party antivirus programs, but Microsoft Defender has become a solid and reliable option for keeping your system safe. Whether you’re a casual user or just getting started, here are five tips and tricks to make the most of it.

1. Run a Full Scan (Not Just the Quick One)

By default, Microsoft Defender performs quick scans that cover only the most likely areas for threats. But for deeper protection—especially if you’ve recently downloaded new software or noticed something suspicious—run a full scan.

How:
Go to Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options, and choose Full scan.

It takes longer, but it’s thorough and helps catch threats hiding in less obvious places.

2. Enable Ransomware Protection

Ransomware can lock you out of your own files unless you pay a ransom. Microsoft Defender includes a feature called Controlled folder access that can block unauthorized apps from tampering with important folders.

How:
Go to Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage ransomware protection, then turn on Controlled folder access.

You can also add trusted apps so they aren’t blocked by mistake.

3. Use the Protection History to Spot Issues

The Protection History shows you what Defender has been up to—blocked threats, quarantine actions, and more. It’s a great way to check if something suspicious happened in the background without you knowing.

How:
Go to Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Protection history.

It gives you a timeline view of all Defender activity, and you can take actions like restoring or removing quarantined items.

4. Schedule Scans That Work for You

Microsoft Defender usually scans in the background, but you can set up custom scan times that don’t interrupt your work or gaming.

How:
Open the Task Scheduler app, navigate to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows > Windows Defender, and edit the scan trigger for Windows Defender Scheduled Scan.

You can set it for off-hours, like late at night or early morning, to keep things smooth.

5. Turn on Cloud-Delivered Protection

Defender can use cloud-based tech to analyze new threats faster and more accurately. It helps protect you from zero-day attacks and other emerging risks.

How:
Go to Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Virus & threat protection settings, then turn on Cloud-delivered protection and Automatic sample submission.

This sends suspicious files to Microsoft for analysis (anonymously), improving detection across all users.

Final Thoughts

Microsoft Defender is free, effective, and already installed on your PC—no extra downloads, no subscriptions. With just a few settings tweaks, you can upgrade your device’s security without lifting much more than a finger. Try out these tips, and let Defender do the heavy lifting.