Software Explorer in Windows Defender allows you to view detailed information about software that is currently running on your computer that can affect your privacy or the security of your computer. You can see, for example, which programs run automatically when you start Windows and information about how these programs interact with important Windows programs and services. Software Explorer helps you monitor the following items:| • | Startup programs, which are programs that run automatically (with or without your knowledge) when you start Windows. | | • | Currently running programs, which are programs that are running onscreen or in the background. | | • | Network-connected programs, which are programs or processes that can connect to the Internet or to your home or office network. | | • | Winsock service providers, which are programs that perform low-level networking and communication services for Windows and programs that run on Windows. These programs often have access to important areas of your computer. |
Using Software ExplorerChanging how a program runs on your computer, such as blocking Internet or network connections and ending processes, can cause problems with Windows and other programs that you use. Use Software Explorer to change how a program runs on your computer only if you are certain the program is causing a problem. Note: To use some Software Explorer options, you must be logged on as Administrator or be a member of the Administrators group.
To view software running on your computer using Software Explorer | • |
Open Windows Defender. (Click Start, point to All Programs, and then click Windows Defender.)
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Click Tools, and then click Software Explorer.
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In the Category list, select the type of software that you want to monitor.
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Understanding Software Explorer detailsSoftware Explorer displays basic information about programs, such as the program name, publisher, and version. Depending on the category you choose, you might also see these important types of information. Auto Start | Indicates if the program is registered to start automatically when Windows starts. | Startup Type | The location where the program is registered to start automatically when Windows starts, for example, in the registry or the All Users Startup Folder. | Ships with OS | Indicates if the program was installed as part of your Windows installation. | Classification | Indicates if the program has been analyzed for risks to your privacy and the security of your computer. | Digitally Signed By | Indicates if the software has been signed and if so, if the publisher listed has signed it. If not, we recommend that you do not trust the publisher information provided with the software, and that you review more details before choosing if you trust the software itself. |
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