Security is an increasingly important issue for all computer users and this is no different for Windows 10. When you start using or upgrade to Windows 10 you should ensure that the basic, built-in security features are enabled.

Here is how you can use Windows Defender to keep Windows 10 protected.

Activate Windows Defender 

1. Click Start and type “windows defender”. Alternatively, you can press Start + Q to open the search box and type “windows defender“
2. Select Windows Defender from the top of the search results
3. Click Tools > Options
4. Click Administrator
5. Select “Use this program”
6. Click Save

Windows Defender is a very useful security tool that protects your system from malware, but you also have a role to play in this protection. Take a look at the system tray to find out whether you need to intervene and perform some action. For example, if you see the icon has a red circle with white cross, it means a malware is detected and the cleanup requires your attention.

Update Windows Defender virus database

Just like any other security software, Windows Defender also relies on updated virus and spyware definitions to offer the best protection to your system. When you open Windows Defender, you will see the version of the virus and the spyware definition database.

The “Definitions last updated” and “Definitions created on” will tell you about the last time the database was updated. To find out if the database is updated to the latest version, see the heading “Virus and Spyware definitions” in bold type. If it shows “Up to date”, it means you need not do anything. Otherwise, you must click on the Update button and let the security application download and install the required updates.

Windows Defender Real-time protection 

Windows Defender is good at offering real-time protection against malware. With real-time protection on, it will alert you immediately when any spyware or malware attempts to install or run on your computer. It also alerts you when any program tries to change the settings of your computer. To turn on real-time protection follow the steps set out below:

1. Open Windows Defender by clicking on the Start button
2. Click Tools > Options
3. Click Real-time protection
4. Check the box “Use real-time protection”

Windows Defender offers good protection but if you want added protection for your computer, you can download a more comprehensive anti-malware tool.