You Can Now Scan Offline with Windows Defender in Windows 10

When it comes to security on Windows 10, Microsoft relies on Windows Defender that much, that is says that Windows 10 is the most secure Windows operating system ever, and you don’t need any third-party antivirus to stay secure while using the operating system.

But, even though Microsoft says that using Windows Defender is enough to keep your computer safe, a lot of users rather use some third-party antivirus software, and even tests performed by professionals show that Windows Defender isn’t even in the top 10 of Windows 10’s best antivirus programs.

So, the company figured out that the best way to attract users to start using Windows Defender again is to make it indeed the best antivirus tool for its latest operating system. Microsoft already presented Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection feature, that will significantly improve the level of security on Enterprise computers, and now, the company also introduced a new feature to Windows Defender in Windows 10 Preview, which allows users to perform a quick offline scan.

Enable Windows Defender Offline Scan

Starting from Windows 10 Preview build 14271, Windows Insiders are able to scan their computers for malicious software with Windows Defender, even if they’re not connected to internet. Windows Defender uses a base of up-to-date threat definitions, which will determine if your computer contains a malicious software, and it will remove it.

To use Windows Defender offline scan, you’ll have to enable it first. Enabling this feature is very easy, and here’s what you need to do:

1. Open Windows 10 Settings app
2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Defender
3. Enable Scan Offline

That’s it, after enabling this option in Windows 10 Settings app, you’ll be able to scan your computer for malicious software, even if you’re not connected to the internet.

This is a very useful feature, and basically all major antivirus programs have it. So, if Microsoft wants Windows Defender to at least come closer to leading antiviruses, presenting features like this is necessary.

What is your favorite antivirus program for Windows 10? Will ‘Scan offline’ feature convince you to stick with Windows Defender? Tell us in the comments.