How to Scan Files for Viruses on Windows 11: Two Effective Methods

Updated at: 11/07/2025

Worried about hidden threats on your Windows 11 PC? This article provides two straightforward methods to effectively scan your files for viruses. Learn how to leverage Windows Security's built-in protection and utilize a reputable third-party antivirus program for comprehensive virus detection and removal. Protect your data – safeguard your system with these simple, yet powerful techniques.

Methods: Using VirusTotal.com for Multi-Engine Virus Scanning

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Access VirusTotal

    • Open an internet browser and go to virustotal.com.
    Open an internet browser and go to virustotal.com.
    Access VirusTotal

  2. Select File for Scanning

    • Click the 'Choose file' button.
    • Select the file you want to scan (from your downloads folder or other location).
    Select the file you want to scan (from your downloads folder or other location). Select the file you want to scan (from your downloads folder or other location).
    Select File for Scanning

  3. Initiate Multi-Engine Scan

    • Upload the file. VirusTotal will analyze it using multiple antivirus engines.
    Upload the file. VirusTotal will analyze it using multiple antivirus engines.
    Initiate Multi-Engine Scan

  4. Analyze Scan Results

    • Review the results. Multiple detections of malware should be taken seriously.
    Review the results. Multiple detections of malware should be taken seriously.
    Analyze Scan Results

Tips

  • A single detection might be a false positive, but multiple detections from different antivirus engines strongly suggest a virus.

Methods: Scanning with Windows Security (Microsoft Defender)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Locate File

    • Locate the file you want to scan.
    Locate the file you want to scan.
    Locate File

  2. Scan with Microsoft Defender

    • Right-click on the file.
    • Select 'Show more options' then 'Scan with Microsoft Defender'.
    Select 'Show more options' then 'Scan with Microsoft Defender'. Select 'Show more options' then 'Scan with Microsoft Defender'.
    Scan with Microsoft Defender

  3. Review Results

    • Review the scan results.
    Review the scan results.
    Review Results
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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Relying solely on Windows Defender

Reason: While Windows Defender is a good baseline, it might not catch all emerging threats. Many viruses can evade detection from a single antivirus program.
Solution: Supplement Windows Defender with a reputable third-party antivirus program for enhanced protection.

2. Ignoring scan updates and definitions

Reason: Antivirus software effectiveness depends on regularly updated virus definitions. Outdated definitions leave your system vulnerable to new threats.
Solution: Ensure your antivirus software and its virus definitions are always up-to-date.

FAQs

My Windows Defender is up-to-date, but I still feel uneasy. Should I use a third-party antivirus scanner?
While Windows Defender offers robust protection, using a reputable third-party antivirus scanner can provide an extra layer of security and potentially detect threats that Defender might miss. Make sure to choose a well-known and trusted program, and avoid installing multiple antivirus programs simultaneously as they can conflict.
How often should I scan my files for viruses?
The frequency depends on your risk level. If you frequently download files from untrusted sources or visit potentially unsafe websites, weekly or even daily scans might be advisable. For average users, a monthly full system scan and occasional quick scans after downloading files from less reliable sources should suffice.