Updating the virus definitions for Windows Defender is an important task that should be done on a regular basis to ensure your computer is protected from the latest online threats. To update the virus definitions, open Windows Defender and follow the steps below.
1. Click the Start button.
2. Type “Windows Defender” in the search box, and then click on the “Windows Defender” shortcut.
3. In the main Windows Defender window, click the “Update” tab.
4. Click the “Check for Updates” button.
5. Windows Defender will then check its virus definitions server for updates and automatically download and install any new virus definitions it finds. Depending on your connection speed, this process can take a few minutes.
6. After the updates have been downloaded and installed, click “Close” to finish the update process.
7. To verify the updates have been installed, click the “History” tab in Windows Defender, and then click the “Update History” link. This will show you a list of all of the updates that have been installed on your system. If you see the latest set of definitions, then you’re all set.
8. You can also manually update the virus definitions at any time. To do this, click the “Update” tab again and then click the “Download Now” button. A dialog box will appear asking if you want to save or run the file. Choose “Run”, and then follow the instructions on screen. When the update has finished, click “Close” to complete the process.
By following these simple steps, you can easily keep Windows Defender up to date and protect your system from the latest online threats. It is recommended that you periodically update the virus definitions to ensure that your computer is always running the latest version.