How to Use Windows Security to Protect HP PCs

[DanInuwa]

All the apps are showing green. And the error still persists. 

[Raqeeb26]

Hi @DanInuwa ,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender) primarily focuses on:

• Antivirus/Anti-Malware scanning.

• Protecting system files from unauthorized changes (Ransomware protection).

• Managing the Firewall.

Here are some steps to ensure that Windows Security is properly configured to protect your HP PC:

1. Open Windows Security:

   • Go to the Start menu, open Settings, and then select Update & Security.
   • Click on Windows Security in the sidebar.
   • Open Virus & threat protection.

2. Run a Quick Scan:

   • Click on Quick scan to check for any existing threats on your device.
   • If threats are found, follow the on-screen instructions to remove them.

3. Check for Updates:

   • In Virus & threat protection, click on Check for updates under the Virus & threat protection updates section to ensure your virus definitions are up to date.

4. Turn on Real-time Protection:

   • Make sure Real-time protection is switched on to continually scan your PC for threats.

5. Manage Controlled Folder Access:

   • Navigate to Ransomware protection within Virus & threat protection.
   • Click on Manage ransomware protection, then toggle Controlled folder access to 'On' to help protect your files from unauthorized changes.

6. Enable Firewall & Network Protection:

   • Ensure that the firewall is active for all networks. You can check this under Firewall & network protection.

7. Device Performance & Health:

   • Check the health of your device under Device performance & health. Any issues will be highlighted here.
8. Run HP PC Hardware Diagnostics: Your HP PC has built-in diagnostics. Power on your PC and immediately press F2 repeatedly. Run a System Test to check for hardware failures (Hard Drive, Memory, etc.).

If your apps are showing green (indicating no issues), but you are still experiencing an error, it might be due to non-security-related issues. Consider checking the following:

• Check for Software Updates: Ensure that all your applications, especially those involved in your error, are updated to the latest version.

• Update Drivers: Confirm that all your device drivers are up to date, which can be crucial for system stability.

• System File Checker: Run the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

Hope this helps resolve your issue.