How to Perform a Full System Scan in McAfee Total Protection

It’s always important to perform a full scan of your computer system for viruses and other malware types on a frequent basis. Doing so checks every last file on your computer for traces of malicious software. McAfee Total Protection will quarantine any infected files that it finds, which also prevents those files from being executed. You can then go on using your computer worry-free, comforted by the knowledge that all of your personal documents and files are as safe and secure as they can possibly be.

Step 1

Open the main McAfee Total Protection interface on your computer. When the program was originally installed and set up, an icon labeled “McAfee Total Protection” was placed on your desktop. Double click this icon to run the program.

Step 2

Click on the section of the screen labeled “Updates” to run a check for new program and virus definitions. You never want to run a full system scan without the latest virus definitions, as doing so could potentially allow viruses to slip through the cracks. Wait for the “Updates” status on the main McAfee Total Protection” screen to read “Current” before you continue.

Step 3

Click the section of the screen reading “Real-time scanning.” A new list of options will fill the right side of the McAfee Total Protection window.

Step 4

Click “Scan your PC.” When the new “Scan your PC” section of the program window loads, click “Run a full scan.” McAfee Total Protection will now begin to scan all of the files and folders on your computer for viruses. You can track the progress of the scan using the constantly updating boxes of information on screen. Any threats that are identified will be listed in the main window. You can also see how much information in gigabytes has been checked, along with how many individual files have been a part of the scan.

When the scan finishes, close the McAfee Total Protection window to return to your computer’s desktop.