Schedule Microsoft Defender Scans in Windows 11

This post shows students and new users how to schedule Microsoft Defender to scan in Windows 11.

Microsoft Defender is free, built-in antivirus software for Windows 11. It is part of Windows security and protects your data and devices in real time.

It scans your computer regularly to protect your device from viruses and malware. The scan occurs while your computer is not actively used or idle to prevent interference with your work.

Scheduling Microsoft Defender Scan in Windows 11 is important because it ensures that your device is regularly scanned for viruses and malware at a specific time of your choice.

You can avoid system disruptions during your work hours by scheduling the scan. This feature also ensures that Microsoft Defender runs at the exact time you specify, so you don’t have to worry about running randomly and interrupting your work.

Additionally, scheduling scans can help improve the overall security of your device by detecting and removing any potential threats before they can cause harm to your system.

When you’re ready to schedule Microsoft Defender, follow the steps below.

Schedule Microsoft Defender Scan

To schedule the Microsoft Defender Antivirus program to scan your computer only at the time and frequency you choose, click Start => then search for Task Scheduler, as shown in the image below. 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.

On the task setting pane, specify how often you want the scans to run and when you’d like them to start. This should always run at the exact time you define here. But your computer must be powered on and running for this to work.

If your computer is shutdown, this task will fail to run

The trigger above runs daily at midnight and stops the task if it runs for more than 2 hours. You can configure more advanced settings, such as repeating every 1, 4, or 8 hours. You can delay the task randomly, but the basic settings should work fine.

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.