How to Install Microsoft Security Essentials & Defender

Install Microsoft Security Essentials and Windows Defender to protect your computer from security threats.

Microsoft Security Essentials helps protect your Windows system from any viruses, Trojans, spyware and worms. It runs in the background and performs scans according to schedule. Windows Defender is a utility tool from Microsoft that defends your system from spyware and malware. It will detect in real-time any attempt made by others to install malicious software that aims to damage your system. Both software tools are ideal for maintaining a high level of safety and security on your computer.

Instructions

Install Microsoft Security Essentials

1. Open your Web browser and navigate to the Microsoft Security Essentials website.

2. Click the download image link. Select your locale or language from the drop-down menu. Click link for the operating system you are using to start to download the installation file.

3. Open the "mseinstall.exe" installation file. Click "Yes" if a security warning dialog box appears.

4. Click the "Next" button. Read the Microsoft Software License Terms and click "I Accept" if you agree with the terms and wish to proceed with the installation.

5. Click the "Validate" button to validate your copy of Microsoft Windows.

6. Click the "Install" button. Uncheck the "Scan My Computer for Potential Threats After Getting the Latest Updates" if you do not want to scan your computer now. Click the "Finish" button.

Install Windows Defender

1. Open your Web browser and navigate to the Windows Defender website. Click the "Get It Now" button.

2. Click the "Download" button on the Microsoft Download Center page. Save the file when prompted. Open the "WindowsDefender.msi" installation file once downloaded. Click "Yes" if a security warning dialog box appears.

3. Click the "Next" button. Click the "Validate" button. Read the Windows Defender License Agreement and if you agree to the terms and then click the circle next to "I accept the terms in the license agreement." Click the "Next" button.

4. Click the box next to your preferred setting. If you are uncertain which choice to make, click the "Use Recommended Settings" box. Click the "Next" button.

5. Click the "Next" button. Click the "Install" button. Click the "Finish" button.

References

• Microsoft Security Essentials: Help & How-tos
• Windows Defender: Support

Resources

• Microsoft Security Essentials: Virus, Spyware & Malware Protection
• Windows Defender: Home Page