The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Open Windows Security, select Virus & threat protection, then choose Manage settings. For most personal PCs, keep Real-time protection and Tamper protection on, review cloud and sample-submission settings, and install current protection updates. Check which antivirus provider is active before changing Defender settings, especially if you use another antivirus product.
Open Virus & threat protection
- Open Start, search for Windows Security, and launch the app.
- Select Virus & threat protection. To reach the same app through Windows 11 Settings, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security.
- Select Manage settings under Virus & threat protection to view Defender’s main protection controls.
Windows Security is the interface; Microsoft Defender Antivirus is the built-in antivirus component in Windows 10 and Windows 11. Labels and availability can vary by Windows version and configuration. On a work- or school-managed device, some settings may be unavailable or controlled by your organization; ask your IT administrator if a control is missing. See Microsoft’s Virus & threat protection guide and its antivirus FAQ.
Check protection status and scan the PC
On the Virus & threat protection page, review Current threats and the last-scan information. A Quick scan checks common locations; choose the other scan options when you need a fuller or custom check.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →To check a particular file or folder, right-click it in File Explorer and choose Scan with Microsoft Defender. In Windows 11, this command may be inside Show more options. Microsoft’s instructions are in Scan an item with Windows Security.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Choose settings in Manage settings
Real-time protection: leave it on
Real-time protection monitors files and programs as they are accessed or run. Keep it enabled for ordinary use. While it is off, opened and downloaded files are not scanned in real time; a file downloaded or installed during that period may not be checked until a later scheduled scan. Microsoft says the control turns itself back on after a short while, and scheduled scans continue. Avoid treating a temporary pause as a safe way to install or open a questionable file.
Cloud-delivered protection and automatic sample submission
Microsoft recommends enabling both settings for optimal protection. Cloud-delivered protection allows Defender to receive updated protection improvements when the device is online. With automatic sample submission enabled, suspicious files may be sent to Microsoft for evaluation. Microsoft says it will alert you if a requested file may contain personal information so you can decide whether to send it.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
Tamper protection
Keep Tamper protection on where it is available. It helps prevent malicious apps from changing important Defender settings, including real-time and cloud-delivered protection. Administrators can still change settings in Windows Security; other apps cannot change them while tamper protection is on.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Protection updates
Check the Protection updates area and select Check for updates if needed. Windows Update automatically downloads security intelligence—also called definitions—which Defender uses during scans. Microsoft explains these controls in Virus and Threat Protection in the Windows Security App.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Use Controlled folder access for added ransomware protection
Controlled folder access can limit unauthorized changes to files in protected folders. Open Virus & threat protection > Manage ransomware protection and consider turning on Controlled folder access. When enabled, common folders such as Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, and Desktop are protected by default; you can add other folders.
If a trusted app is blocked, allow it only if it genuinely needs access to protected files. An allowed app can access those files, so a compromised allowed app could put them at risk. Microsoft’s guidance is available in Protect your PC from ransomware.
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
Add exclusions only for a specific reason
An exclusion tells Defender not to check a selected file, folder, file type, or process during real-time scanning. That reduces protection for the excluded item and can leave the device or its data vulnerable. Microsoft notes that scheduled scans or a third-party antimalware product might still scan an excluded item; do not assume that means the exclusion is harmless.
- Exclude only an item you recognize and have a specific reason to exempt.
- For a process exclusion, Microsoft recommends entering the full path and filename.
- Remove the exclusion when it is no longer needed.
Microsoft describes exclusion behavior and its risks in its Windows Security settings guide.
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Check which antivirus provider is active
If you install another antivirus or antimalware product, Defender Antivirus goes into disabled mode automatically while that product is running. After the other product is uninstalled, Defender should return to active mode automatically. Confirm the status instead of assuming which product is protecting the PC: open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection and select Manage providers.
Disabling Defender without another active security product leaves the device vulnerable. Microsoft’s antivirus FAQ explains the built-in antivirus behavior, and its Windows Security scanning guide covers the app’s controls. These sources explain how provider switching works, not how to rank antivirus vendors.
Protect important files with recovery options
Antivirus settings reduce risk, but they are not a substitute for a way to recover files. Microsoft recommends keeping Windows current, enabling Controlled folder access, and storing important files on OneDrive. Microsoft says OneDrive includes ransomware detection and recovery as well as file versioning; Microsoft 365 advanced protection offers ransomware detection and recovery. These benefits depend on the service and plan, so check current eligibility and availability for your region in Microsoft’s ransomware protection guidance and Windows Security overview.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
