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How to enable real-time virus protection on all devices
Make sure a reputable antivirus / anti-malware tool with real-time scanning is active on every computer you use.
Step-by-step guide
- Windows: Windows Security (built-in) provides good protection at no extra cost
- Search for 'Windows Security' in Start
- Click 'Virus & threat protection' — ensure real-time protection is On
- Mac: macOS has built-in XProtect. Consider Malwarebytes Free for extra scanning
- Android/iOS: keep the OS updated — this is the primary malware defence on mobile
How to confirm it worked
- The setting is saved and active on your device
- You have tested it works before closing the page
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Why this matters
Real-time protection catches and quarantines malware before it can do damage — including ransomware that would otherwise encrypt all your files.
Need more context?
For background on this task — including common questions and answers — see the full guide.
Read the full guide →Related security tasks
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