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How to Install Malwarebytes on Windows
Edited 3 months ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
MalwarebytesWindowsInstallationSoftwareSecurityComputerProtectionAntivirusCybersecuritySetupDownloadInstall Shield
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Installing Malwarebytes on a Windows system is an effective way to protect your system from various types of malware, including viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. Antivirus and anti-malware programs are essential tools for maintaining the safety and health of your computer. Malwarebytes is one of the leading anti-malware software, known for its reliability and powerful protection capabilities. This guide provides a step-by-step process for downloading, installing, and configuring Malwarebytes on a Windows computer.
Before starting the installation, it is important to ensure that your system meets the necessary requirements to run Malwarebytes efficiently. This software usually requires a computer running on Windows 7 or later versions, with a minimum of 2 GB of RAM and an Internet connection to receive updates.
Steps to install Malwarebytes on Windows
Step 1: Download the Malwarebytes installer
The first step to installing Malwarebytes on your computer is to download the installer from the official Malwarebytes website. Using your web browser, visit www.malwarebytes.com. Once you reach the homepage, you can easily find a button or link that allows you to download the free version of Malwarebytes.
Click the "Free Download" button, and your browser will start downloading the installer file. The download speed and time will depend on your internet connection. Once the download is complete, the installer file usually called "MBSetup.exe" will be available in your downloads folder or the location where your browser saves downloaded files.
Step 2: Run the Malwarebytes installer
Once the download is complete, navigate to the folder where the installer file is saved. Double-click the "MBSetup.exe" file to launch the Malwarebytes setup wizard. If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), click "Yes" to let the installation process proceed. User Account Control is a security feature in Windows that prevents unauthorized changes to the system.
Step 3: Choose the desired installation option
Upon launching the setup wizard, you will be greeted with a welcome screen. Click on the “Get Started” button to proceed. Next, you will be given the option to choose the type of setup – Personal or Work. If you want to use Malwarebytes on a personal computer, choose “Personal Computer”, otherwise choose “Work Computer” if it is for business use.
You may also be asked if you want to opt for a free trial of Malwarebytes Premium. The Premium version includes real-time protection features, web protection, and scheduled scanning capabilities. If you are unsure, you can choose the free version and upgrade later if you want.
Step 4: Complete the installation process
After making your selections, click the "Agree and Install" button to begin the installation process. The setup wizard will automatically install Malwarebytes on your system. This process may take a few minutes to complete. During installation, files will be copied to the C:\Program Files\Malwarebytes directory, and registry keys will be added to your system registry. You can monitor the progress through the progress bar displayed on the setup wizard interface.
Once the installation is complete, Malwarebytes will launch automatically, and you will see a “Thank you” screen that confirms the successful installation. You should then click the “Finish” button to exit the setup wizard.
Step 5: Initial setup and configuration
When you launch Malwarebytes for the first time, it's important to perform initial setup and configuration to get the program ready for your needs. Allow Malwarebytes to load completely. You'll be prompted to update the database; keeping malware definitions up to date is important to ensure maximum protection. Make sure you're connected to the Internet, then click the "Check for Updates" button. This will download and install the latest malware definitions and software updates.
Step 6: Performing the initial scan
The first malware scan is important as it ensures that there is no existing malware on your system. To perform the initial scan, go to the dashboard and click the "Scan Now" button. Malwarebytes will then begin scanning your computer for potential threats. A full system scan can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the number of files on your computer and overall system performance.
During the scan, Malwarebytes will check for malware such as viruses, spyware, Trojans, and worms. Any threats identified will be listed after the scan is complete. You will have the option to choose an action to isolate or remove those files from your system.
Step 7: Setting up a scheduled scan (optional)
To ensure constant protection against threats, it is advisable to configure Malwarebytes to perform regular system scans. To do this, navigate to the "Settings" menu found on the Malwarebytes program interface. Click on the "Scan Schedule" tab, where you will find options to set up automatic scans.
Here you can configure the frequency and timing of the scans. For personal use, a daily or weekly scan should be sufficient, but you can adjust this to suit your needs. Scheduled scans run automatically, ensuring continuous protection without manual intervention.
Understanding the features of Malwarebytes
Now that you have successfully installed and configured Malwarebytes on your Windows system, understanding some basic features will help you use the software to its full potential.
Real-time protection
One of the premium features of Malwarebytes is real-time protection. This feature constantly monitors your system and stops potential threats as they occur. This includes web protection that monitors your online activities and blocks access to known malicious websites that distribute malware.
Quarantine mode
Malwarebytes uses quarantine to safely isolate detected threats, ensuring they cannot harm your system. If it is later determined that the quarantined files are safe, they can be deleted or restored. The "Quarantine" tab provides easy access to view and manage these files.
Scan type
- Threat scan: This is the standard scan that checks critical areas of your system where malware is commonly found.
- Custom scan: Provides options to customize the scan by selecting which drives and folders to include.
- Hyper scan: A lightweight scan that targets active threats for quick results.
Updating the software
It is important to keep Malwarebytes updated to stay protected from new types of threats. The software is regularly updated to include the latest malware databases and functionality improvements. It is advisable to check for updates regularly by selecting the "Updates" tab.
Troubleshooting installation issues
Although the Malwarebytes installation process is generally straightforward, users may encounter some common issues.
Insufficient system resources
Malwarebytes may not install properly if your system does not meet the minimum requirements. Check your system's specifications to ensure it is equipped with at least 2 GB of RAM and sufficient disk space.
User Account Control (UAC) issues
If UAC prevents the installation, consider disabling it temporarily by going to Control Panel > User Accounts > Change User Account Control Settings. However, remember to enable UAC later, as it is an important Windows security feature.
Interference from other security software
Conflicts with existing antivirus or anti-malware software may also prevent installation. Temporarily disabling existing security programs may help. Re-enable them after successful installation.
Conclusion
Installing Malwarebytes on your Windows system gives you robust protection against a wide range of malware threats. Following these steps and understanding its features ensures that your computer will remain safe and secure. Whether you choose the free version or opt for the premium features, Malwarebytes provides effective and reliable protection for personal and business needs. Regular scans and keeping the software up-to-date are essential practices to maintain optimal protection.
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