W

Windows Defender Offline

Microsoft  ❘ Freeware

Windows Defender Offline: Strong Security for Infected Systems

Pete Milner

Windows Defender Offline effectively detects and removes malware, providing a robust solution for systems that cannot be cleaned while online.
2025 Editor's Rating

Windows Defender Offline is a free security tool developed by Microsoft that provides advanced protection against different types of malware. This software is specifically designed to remove viruses, rootkits, and other harmful software that might infiltrate your system and avoid detection by antivirus solutions installed on your PC.

The program works by creating a bootable USB or CD/DVD drive that you can use to start your computer. Once the system is booted from the Windows Defender Offline media, it will scan your computer offline for viruses and other malicious software that might have infected your machine.

Windows Defender Offline is easy to use and comes with a simple interface that allows you to select the type of media and start the creation process. Additionally, the program is updated regularly to maintain its effectiveness against emerging threats.

Windows Defender Offline is a reliable security tool that can help protect your system against complex malware that may not be detected by traditional antivirus programs.

  • Creates a bootable USB or CD/DVD drive to scan your computer offline for viruses and malware.
  • Provides advanced protection against different types of malware such as rootkits.
  • Simple to use interface and regularly updated for increased effectiveness.

Overview

Windows Defender Offline is a Freeware software in the category Security developed by Microsoft.

The latest version of Windows Defender Offline is currently unknown. It was initially added to our database on 01/19/2017.

Windows Defender Offline runs on the following operating systems: Windows.

Windows Defender Offline has not been rated by our users yet.

Pros

  • Free and built into the Windows operating system.
  • Effective in detecting and removing malware that traditional antivirus solutions may miss.
  • Boots from a clean environment which helps to eliminate threats before the OS loads.
  • Regular updates from Microsoft ensure the latest threat definitions are available.
  • User-friendly interface for ease of use, even for those less tech-savvy.

Cons

  • May not detect all malware compared to some third-party antivirus solutions.
  • The scan process can be time-consuming, especially on larger drives.
  • Requires restarting the computer, which might not be convenient for all users.
  • Limited features compared to full-fledged antivirus products.
  • Does not provide real-time protection while the operating system is running.

FAQ

What is Windows Defender Offline?

Windows Defender Offline is a standalone tool from Microsoft that can help remove malicious software from your Windows device when it is unable to connect to the internet or when the device is not booting properly.

How does Windows Defender Offline work?

Windows Defender Offline works by restarting your device and running a scan outside of the Windows operating system environment to detect and remove malicious software.

When should I use Windows Defender Offline?

You should use Windows Defender Offline when your device is showing symptoms of malware infection, such as frequent crashes, unusual error messages, or unexpected behavior.

Is Windows Defender Offline free to use?

Yes, Windows Defender Offline is a free tool provided by Microsoft for users of Windows devices.

How can I create a Windows Defender Offline bootable USB drive?

To create a Windows Defender Offline bootable USB drive, you can download the tool from Microsoft's website and follow the instructions provided for creating the bootable media.

Can Windows Defender Offline replace traditional antivirus software?

While Windows Defender Offline is a powerful tool for removing malware, it is recommended to also use traditional antivirus software for ongoing protection and real-time scanning.


Pete Milner

Pete Milner

I'm Pete, a software reviewer at UpdateStar with a passion for the ever-evolving world of technology. My background in engineering gives me a unique insight into the intricacies of software, allowing me to provide in-depth, knowledgeable reviews and analyses. Whether it's the newest software releases, tech innovations, or the latest trends, I'm here to break it all down for you. I work from UpdateStar’s Berlin main office.

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