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FIX: Windows Defender asks to scan after Windows 10/11 update

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Updated onApril 3, 2024

updated onApril 3, 2024

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Just like the majority of features in Windows 10,Windows Defenderalso gets improved with almost every update of the OS.

The most notable feature is the ability to perform an offline computer scan, even before your computer is booted.

However, the new offline scan feature is exactly what gives some people headache inWindows 10.

Namely, one user reported that Windows Defender constantly asks him to perform an offline scan, but when he does, no malicious software is found.

Although this is not a serious issue that could prevent your computer, or even Windows Defender from working, constantly receivingnotificationsabout performing a scan can be very frustrating and annoying.

Luckily, there’s a simple solution that will remove all unwanted scanning prompts, and all other potentially annoying Windows Defender notifications.

However, if Windows Defender is constantly scanning, you should think about getting a better antivirus solution.

What can I do if Windows Defender keeps asking me to scan?

What can I do if Windows Defender keeps asking me to scan?

1. Disable the security messages

There you go, after turning off these options, you won’t be bothered by unwanted Windows Defender notifications.

However, we advise you to actually have these notifications turned on because if you turn them off, you might miss some important security notification from Windows Defender, which you certainly don’t want.

2. Try a better antivirus instead

Mending Windows Defender is OK if you really like the default Windows default antivirus but unfortunately, it’s not the best tool to protect your PC.

If you want to be absolutely sure that your computer and data are secure, you should definitely think about getting yourself a dedicated security solution.

And once you install a third-party antivirus, it will take over and will no longer send you annoying messages like this one.

The tool below has multi-layered protection, and it will also watch over your router and webcam, so they don’t get hijacked or cracked.

ESET HOME Security Essential

3. Check for Windows updates

Sometimes, this problem can be fixed with a simple update of your OS, since Windows Defender is part of Windows. Check if you have new ones by performing the steps above.

We hope that you managed to get rid of this nagging message from Windows Defender, or we convinced you to switch to a better security solution.

For alternatives, you can also look at our dedicated selection of thebest antiviruses with unlimited license.

If you have any comments or questions, just let us know in the comments below. Other users might benefit from your knowledge.

More about the topics:Windows Defender issues

Ivan Jenic

Windows Hardware Expert

Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.

When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.

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Ivan Jenic

Windows Hardware Expert

Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.