Microsoft Security Essentials Usage

Updating, Scanning, and Virus Removal

Updating

Because new viruses and malware are released daily, Microsoft regularly releases new virus definitions for Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE).
MSE will update automatically. To update manually, use the following procedure:

  1. Open MSE by double clicking the MSE icon in your notification area. microsoft security essentials notification icon
  2. Click the Update tab.
    MSE application displaying update tab
  3. Click Update.
    MSE application window displaying the update process

Scanning

  1. Open MSE by double clicking the MSE icon in your notification area. MSE notification area icon
  2. Once MSE is open, click the Home tab.
    MSE application displaying Home tab
  3. On the right, select a Scan Option (quick, full, or custom scan) and click Scan now.
  4. MSE will start the scan.
    MSE application displaying scan process
    An icon in your notification area will swirl while the scan is in progress. MSE scanning notification icon
  5. If nothing is found, you will return back to the home page panel interface. If malware is found, see the Virus Removal section of this documentation

Virus Removal

  1. If a virus or harmful software has been detected, the icon in your notification area will turn red and have an X through it. MSE risk notification icon
  2. Open MSE by double clicking the MSE icon in your notification area.  Red indicates your computer is at risk.
    MSE application displaying home tab after a threat is detected
  3. Click Clean Computer to start.
    MSE application displaying home tab during file scan
  4. Once complete, a list of Detected items will be displayed. Click Apply Actions to remove the potential threats on your computer.
    MSE application displaying list of detected items
  5. After the items have been successfully removed, click Close.