How to remove malware using Microsoft Safety Scanner on Windows 10
Are you unsure if the antivirus is working correctly on Windows 10? Get a second opinion with the Microsoft Safety Scanner tool.
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OnWindows 10, the Microsoft Safety Scanner (MSERT) is a standalone tool to scan, find, and remove many types of malware, including viruses, spyware, and unwanted software that may cause harm to your computer without additional installation.
The security tool is similar to theMalicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT), and it works similarly to the anti-malware software you use onWindows 10. It even has the same engine and threat definitions as theMicrosoft Defender Antivirus. However, it is not a replacement for your antivirus solution since it does not offer real-time protection or automatic updates. Instead, it only provides another way to scan and remove infections when you suspect the current security software is not working correctly and believe the device has been infected.
Also, the Microsoft Safety Scanner is only valid for ten days. Once it expires, you need to download an updated version to make sure you are scanning the device with the latest security threats definitions and enhancements.
Thishow-to guidewalks you through the steps to scan and remove malware infecting your Windows 10 computer using the free Microsoft Safety Scanner tool.
How to remove malware with Microsoft Safety Scanner on Windows 10
To use the Microsoft Safety Scanner tool to remove malware on Windows 10, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the Microsoft tool will scan the system for common viruses and many other types of malware, similar to any other anti-virus software.
How to remove malware with Microsoft Safety Scanner on Command Prompt
To use the Microsoft Safety Scanner with Command Prompt, use these steps:
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In the command, update the path with the location containing the"MSERT.exe"file.
After you complete the steps, the tool will perform a scan on the computer to detect and delete any malware it may find.
If a threat is found using the quick scan, you will get a prompt to perform a full scan. In the case you ran the command with the/f:yoptions, the scan will detect and remove any malware. If you use the/qoption, the tool will run in the background without a user interface. You can always see the complete list of options using themsert /?command.
When using this tool, it’s always commended to download a new instance for every scan. Also, the Safety Scanner expires after 10 days after being downloaded.
We are focusing this guide on Windows 10, but the anti-malware tool is also compatible with previous versions, including Windows 8.1 and 7. You can also use this tool on Windows 11.
More resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
Mauro Huculak has been a Windows How-To Expert contributor for WindowsCentral.com for nearly a decade and has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides. He also has an IT background and has achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA. He has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years.
