Identifying Your Antivirus on Windows 10
So, you want to find out what antivirus software is running on your Windows 10 device. Pretty straightforward, right? Well, it is, but sometimes it can feel like navigating a maze if you’re not sure where to look. Usually, the built-in Windows Security Centre has everything you need. Just a few clicks and you’ll know whether your system is well protected or in need of an update.
Start with the Start Menu
First things first, click the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner or press the Windows key on your keyboard. This opens the Start Menu, your gateway to system settings and apps. As you get used to it, you’ll feel like a tech whiz checking your security setup from here.
Open Settings
Next, type “Settings” into the search bar and select the Settings app from the results. Think of this as the control centre for your Windows system. Here, you can manage updates, features, and security settings. If you prefer shortcuts, pressing Windows key + I opens Settings instantly.
Navigate to Update & Security
In the Settings window, look for “Update & Security”. This is your go-to spot for system updates and security options. It’s where you can see what’s protecting your PC. Click on Update & Security in the sidebar, and you’ll land right there.
Access Windows Security
Once inside “Update & Security,” click on “Windows Security” on the left. This section shows all your security features — firewall status, virus protection, and more. If you want to skip navigation, just type Windows Security into the Start Menu’s search bar, and it’ll take you straight there.
Check Your Antivirus Status
Within Windows Security, click on “Virus & Threat Protection” to see what’s actively defending your PC. If it says “Windows Defender Antivirus”, you’re running Microsoft’s built-in security tool. If a third-party antivirus is installed, its name will be displayed right here. For more details, click “Protection updates” to see the latest virus definitions.
A few extra tips: Look at the system tray at the bottom-right corner of your screen for antivirus icons. Right-clicking them gives quick access to settings. Or, for a full list, go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps or press Windows key + X to open Apps & Features.
And if you’re comfortable with command line tools, launching PowerShell as an admin and running Get-MpComputerStatus will quickly tell you whether Windows Defender is active, updating, and more.
Once you know where to look, it’s pretty simple. Regularly checking your antivirus status helps keep your system safe and can save a lot of headaches later on. If anything goes awry, you’ll already have a good idea of what’s running behind the scenes.
Checklist:
- Open the Start Menu and go to Settings.
- Check the Update & Security section.
- Open Windows Security to check which antivirus is active.
- Consider checking for updates or new security alerts.
Hopefully, this quick guide saves you a bit of time and hassle. Happy browsing!