How to Verify Microsoft Defender Status on Windows

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Open Windows Security

   Press the Windows key on your keyboard and type Windows Security. Select the app from the search results to launch the security dashboard.

   Note: Win + S
2. 20 sec

   Access Virus & threat protection

   Click on Virus & threat protection in the left-hand menu or the main dashboard icons. This section displays your current protection summary.

3. 30 sec

   Verify real-time protection

   Look for the Manage settings link under the Virus & threat protection settings header. Ensure the toggle for Real-time protection is set to On.

   Note: If the toggle is greyed out, verify that no third-party antivirus is currently registered as the primary security provider.
4. 1 min

   Check for security intelligence updates

   Return to the Virus & threat protection screen and click Protection updates. Select Check for updates to ensure your threat definitions are current.

5. 30 sec

   Confirm device health status

   Navigate to Device performance & health in the main menu. A green checkmark indicates that there are no issues with security services or system drivers.