How to Install Windows Defender Antivirus

This article explains how to install Windows Defender Antivirus on Windows Server 2016/2019. Open Server Manager and start the 'Add Roles and Features' wizard, click through to the Features section, and check Windows Defender Antivirus. Click Next and Install, then restart the server when prompted. After restarting, open Windows Defender Antivirus through the Start menu and go to Virus & Threat Protection in Windows Security to confirm it is active, completing the installation and configuration.

Steps to Install Windows Defender Antivirus

Step 1: Open Server Manager

  1. Log in to your Windows Server 2016/2019.
  2. Click Start, then select Server Manager.
  3. Inside Server Manager, click Add roles and features to begin the installation wizard.
    open server manager

Step 2: Run the Microsoft Defender Installer

  1. In the Add Roles and Features Wizard, click Next until you reach the Features section.
    run the microsoft defender installer
  2. Scroll down and check Windows Defender Antivirus.
    run the microsoft defender installer
  3. Click Next, then click Install.
    run the microsoft defender installer
    This is the Microsoft Defender installer process for Windows Server.

Step 3: Restart the Server

  • After the install Defender step is completed, you will be prompted to restart the server.
  • Click Restart Now to finish the installation.
    restart the server

Step 4: Open Windows Defender Antivirus

Once the server restarts:

  1. Click Start, then search for Windows Defender Antivirus.
    open Windows Defender antivirus
  2. Open Windows Security and select Virus & Threat Protection.
    open Windows Defender antivirus
    open Windows Defender antivirus
    This ensures your Microsoft Defender Antivirus install is active.
    configure defender settings

Step 5: Windows Defender Configuration Completed

Congratulations! You have successfully:

  • Completed the install Windows Defender Antivirus process.
  • Run the Microsoft Defender installer.
  • Finished the Defender configuration.

Your Windows Server 2016/2019 is now protected by Microsoft Defender Antivirus.

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Last Updated:   10/28/2026
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