Set your time and frequency, and then select OK. Select the Triggers tab, and then select New. In the top-center pane, double-click Windows Defender Scheduled Scan. In the left pane of Task Scheduler, expand Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows and then scroll down and double-click the Windows Defender folder. In the search box on the taskbar, type Task Scheduler and then select Task Scheduler in the list of results. If you want to set your own scan schedule: Windows Security regularly scans your PC to help keep it safe. If you have an earlier version of Windows and are using Microsoft Security Essentials, it’s a good idea to move to Windows Security. Windows Update downloads updates for Windows Security automatically to help keep your PC safe and protect it from threats. Windows Security uses real-time protection to scan everything you download or run on your PC.

When you start up Windows 10 for the first time, Windows Security is on and actively helping to protect your PC by scanning for malware (malicious software), viruses, and security threats. If you have Windows 10, you’ll get the latest antivirus protection with Windows Security. In previous versions of Windows 10, Windows Security is called Windows Defender Security Center. In addition, devices running Windows 10 in S mode receive security updates automatically.

This is because the built-in security of Windows 10 in S mode automatically prevents viruses and other threats from running on your device.

Windows 10 in S mode is streamlined for tighter security, so the Virus & threat protection area has fewer options than those described here. If you're running Windows 10 in S mode, some of the features of the Windows Security interface will be a little different.

Windows security essential