How to Schedule Microsoft Defender Scans in Windows 11

This article provides a guide on how to schedule Microsoft Defender to perform scans in Windows 11.

Microsoft Defender is a free antivirus software included with Windows 11. It is part of Windows Security and provides real-time protection for your data and devices.

It regularly scans your computer to protect it from viruses and malware. The scan takes place while your computer is idle to avoid interrupting your work.

To prevent interruptions during your work hours, you can schedule the scan. This feature ensures that Microsoft Defender runs at the specified time, so you won’t have to worry about it running randomly and disrupting your workflow.

Schedule a Microsoft Defender Scan

To schedule the Microsoft Defender Antivirus to scan your computer at your preferred time and frequency, click Start and search for Task Scheduler.

Select and open Task Scheduler.

Alternatively, you can use the search box on the taskbar to search for Task Scheduler. Then select to open it.

When Schedule Tasks opens, in the left pane, expand Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows, and then scroll down and double-click (or press) the Windows Defender folder.

Double-click (or press twice) Windows Defender Scheduled Scan in the top center pane.

This should open the task properties. In the Windows Defender Scheduled Scan Properties (Local Computer) window, select the Triggers tab, go to the bottom of the window, and then tap or click New.

In the task settings panel, specify how frequently you want the scans to run and the desired start time. It is important to note that the scans will only run at the exact time you define. Additionally, your computer must be powered on and running for this to function properly.

If your computer is shut down, this task will fail to run

The scheduled task runs daily at midnight and will stop automatically if it has been running for more than two hours. You can also configure more advanced settings, such as setting the task to repeat every 1, 4, or 8 hours. Additionally, you have the option to delay the task randomly, but the basic settings should generally suffice.

When you’re done with your settings, click OK and then OK to close.

That’s it!

Conclusion:

• Scheduling Microsoft Defender scans in Windows 11 enhances your device’s security by regularly checking for viruses and malware.
• It allows you to specify the exact timing for scans, minimizing disruption to your daily activities.
• The process is straightforward, leveraging the built-in Task Scheduler to set your preferences.
• Regular scans help maintain optimal performance and safeguard against potential threats.
• By taking a proactive approach to device security, you ensure a safer computing experience.