How to Manually Scan Files for Malware in Windows 11

Manually scanning specific files or folders for malware in Windows 11 isn't just a good idea; it can be a lifesaver to ensure your system remains safe from hidden threats. While the always-on Microsoft Defender Antivirus works hard in the background to protect you against viruses, ransomware, spyware, and various nefarious online gremlins, there often comes a time when you need to put your detective hat on and scan particular files yourself.
Whether it's a suspicious email attachment, a mysterious download from a less-than-reputable website, or even an external USB drive you've plugged in after ages, knowing how to manually scan these files is essential. Windows 11 offers four powerful methods to get this done — File Explorer, Windows Security, Command Prompt, and PowerShell. Let’s break these down step-by-step.

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1. Using File Explorer: The Easy Route​

The simplest way to manually scan files for malware is directly from File Explorer.

Steps:​

• Open File Explorer (Win + E).
• Navigate to the folder containing the file(s) or folder(s) you want to scan.
• Highlight one or more suspicious files.
• Press and hold Shift, then right-click the selected item(s).
• From the context menu, choose Scan with Microsoft Defender.

At this point, the Windows Security app will launch with the results of your scan displayed on the “Virus & threat protection” page.
Tip: If you don’t see the "Scan with Microsoft Defender" option immediately, click Show more options or enable classic context menus.

Output:​

You’ll either see a happy green checkmark confirming "No threats found" or a red alert if a threat is detected, prompting further action.

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2. Scanning via Windows Security App: For More Precision​

If you'd like more customization or are working with multiple folders:

Steps:​

• Open the Start Menu and search for Windows Security. Click on it to open.
• Navigate to the Virus & threat protection section.
• Under "Current threats," click on Scan Options.
• Select Custom scan from the listed choices.
• Click Scan now.
• A window will open, prompting you to browse for the folder you wish to scan. Select your target folder and hit Select Folder.

Important Detail: While you can scan specific folders using this method, individual file scanning isn't possible inside the Windows Security interface. However, if you just want to check an entire folder (like "Downloads"), this method is perfect.

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3. Command Prompt: The Hardcore Techie's Choice​

If you’re comfortable with the Command Prompt, using this method gives you fine-tuned control over what gets scanned.

Steps:​

• Open Start Menu, type Command Prompt, right-click on the result, and select Run as administrator.
• Type the following to navigate to the Microsoft Defender Antivirus Platform folder:
  

  bash
  
     cd C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Platform

• Use the dir command to locate the latest version folder of Microsoft Defender (e.g., 4.18.24090.11-0).
• Change directories into that folder:
  

  bash
  
     cd 4.18.24090.11-0

• Use the following command to scan a folder:
  

  bash
  
     mpcmdrun -Scan -ScanType 3 -File "C:\Path\To\Folder"

  For specific file scanning:
  

  bash
  
     mpcmdrun -Scan -ScanType 3 -File "C:\Path\To\File.txt"

  Quick Note: Quotation marks in the path are required if the folder or file name contains spaces.

Result:​

The terminal will show the status of the scan and notify you whether threats were found or if the coast is clear.

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4. PowerShell: Another Pro-Level Toolkit​

PowerShell offers an equally powerful method for advanced users who prefer scriptable solutions.

Steps:​

• Open Start Menu, type PowerShell, and select Run as administrator.
• To scan a folder manually, use:
  

  bash
  
     Start-MpScan -ScanType CustomScan -ScanPath "C:\Path\To\Folder"

• For file-specific scans, the command looks like:
  

  bash
  
     Start-MpScan -ScanType CustomScan -ScanPath "C:\Path\To\Folder\File.txt"

  Example: Scanning "example.jpg" in the Downloads folder would look like:
  

  bash
  
     Start-MpScan -ScanType CustomScan -ScanPath "C:\Users\YourName\Downloads\example.jpg"

Expectation:​

PowerShell will output the results directly in the console, telling you if a potential threat exists, so you can act.

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Why Manually Scanning Files is Vital​

Although Windows Defender is a robust, default anti-malware solution packed into Windows 11, there are scenarios that necessitate manual scans. For one, real-time scanning may overlook inactive malicious files waiting to be executed, or you may want to verify a batch of newly downloaded files from the internet.
Further, new forms of malware such as fileless attacks or polymorphic viruses often employ clever tricks to avoid detection — although rare, such cases warrant hands-on vigilance.

Bonus Tip:​

Pair these manual methods with Windows Security's Full Scan or Offline Scan options when you suspect more deeply rooted issues.

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Wrapping It Up​

Windows 11 gives users four straightforward yet effective methods to scan files and folders for malware using Microsoft Defender — File Explorer for quick and easy access, Windows Security for more guided scanning, and Command Prompt or PowerShell for those wanting a more advanced and scriptable approach.
So, the next time you're feeling suspicious about the “FreeGift.exe” file your friend sent via email, you know just how to handle it. With these tools, you’re not just tackling potential threats — you’re winning the cyberwar one file at a time.
Got more questions or advanced tips on using Windows Defender? Let’s discuss in the comments below!

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Source: Windows Central How to scan files manually for virus infection on Windows 11