It uses the same detection engine and malware definitions as Microsoft Security Essentials and Microsoft Forefront Endpoint Protection. However, it can be run on a computer that already has an antivirus product without any potential interference, and can therefore be used to scan a potentially infected computer as a second check from another antivirus program.

It is not meant to be used as a day-to-day tool, as it does not provide real-time protection against viruses, cannot update its virus definitions and expires after ten days. It was released on 15 April 2011, following the discontinuation of Windows Live OneCare Safety Scanner. Microsoft Safety Scanner is a free disposable virus scanner similar to Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool that can be used to scan a system for computer viruses and other forms of malware.

Windows 10 Windows 8 Windows 8.1 Windows 7 Windows Server 2003 Windows Vista Windows XP ġ21.75 MiB (32-bit) 125.05 MiB (64-bit) įreeware, only for development and test purposes

Microsoft safety scanner download