How to Use Microsoft Security Essentials

Microsoft Security Essentials is the free anti-virus and anti-malware program provided by Microsoft as a free downloadable update to help protect Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7 from malicious software present on the Internet and in emails. Security Essentials automatically enables the Windows Firewall and runs a resident shield in the background, which constantly monitors and protects the computer from malware threats. Security Essentials is designed to operate without user intervention, however the program can be used manually.

Instructions

1. Double-click the green icon with a check mark by the clock in the lower-right corner.

2. Click the "Update" tab.

3. Click the large "Update" button. Wait a few minutes for the update to complete.

4. Click the "Home" tab.

5. Click "Scan Now" to begin a scan on the computer. This scan searches the computer for malicious software and removes any that it finds.

Resources

• Microsoft Security Essentials