In the Windows environment, PowerShell is a powerful scripting language that allows users to automate tasks and manage the operating system efficiently. One useful command in PowerShell is Start-MpScan, which enables users to scan files for malware and other security threats. This article will explain how to use the Start-MpScan command, its importance in maintaining a secure Windows system, and provide practical examples to illustrate its usage.

Start-MpScan is part of the Windows Defender module in PowerShell, making it readily available on Windows systems. It leverages the Windows Defender Antivirus engine to scan files and folders for any potential threats. By using this command, users can proactively detect and remove malware, protecting their system and data.

Examples:

1. Scanning a File: To scan a specific file, open PowerShell and run the following command:

   Start-MpScan -ScanPath "C:\Path\To\File.txt"

   This command will initiate a scan on the specified file and provide a detailed report of the scan results.

2. Scanning a Folder: To scan an entire folder and its subfolders, use the following command:

   Start-MpScan -ScanPath "C:\Path\To\Folder" -Recurse

   Adding the "-Recurse" parameter ensures that all files within the folder and its subfolders are scanned.

3. Customizing Scan Options: Users can also customize the scan options by specifying additional parameters. For example, to perform a quick scan, use the "-QuickScan" parameter:

   Start-MpScan -ScanPath "C:\Path\To\Folder" -QuickScan

   Other parameters, such as "-FullScan" for a full system scan or "-BootSectorScan" for scanning boot sectors, can be used to tailor the scanning process according to specific requirements.