When a scan is complete, a report provides details about the presence and status of your security protection. If problems are detected, Security Scan Plus provides security recommendations. Security Scan Plus automatically scans your computer on a weekly basis to make sure that your antivirus software, firewall protection, and web security are active and up to date.
Read the following common questions and answers to learn more about Security Scan Plus. You can click the links below to jump to each section:
| Link | Description |
| Installation | Installation topics |
| Scanning | How to scan with Security Scan Plus |
| Updating | Information about updating Security Scan Plus |
| Uninstalling | How to remove Security Scan Plus from your computer |
How did I get McAfee Security Scan Plus?
McAfee Security Scan Plus is typically provided to you when you downloaded another McAfee or third-party app.
How long does it take to install McAfee Security Scan Plus and run a scan?
If you need to download it, the app is a small download (around 1 MB). It takes less than a minute to download and install on a broadband (cable, DSL) connection. Most scans complete in two to three minutes, and do not slow down your computer.Back to top
Do I need to take any direct action when McAfee Security Scan Plus displays an alert?
No. Alerts automatically start a scan in 60 seconds.
Can I change how often McAfee Security Scan Plus scans my computer?
Yes. You can change the settings of Security Scan Plus to scan your system weekly, biweekly, or once a month:
- Open Security Scan Plus.
- Click Settings.
- Select your preferred schedule options.
- Click Apply.
Do I need to be a Windows administrator to use McAfee Security Scan Plus?
No. Anyone who logs into Windows can use McAfee Security Scan Plus.
Do I need to be logged into Windows as an administrator to uninstall McAfee Security Scan Plus?
Yes. Only Windows administrators can uninstall McAfee Security Scan.
What do I do if I get an Internet Connection Unavailable error message?
This error message is displayed at the start of a security scan if your computer is not connected to the internet, or during a scan if your internet connection is lost. If you see this message:
- Check your internet connection and click Retry.
- If you can’t connect to the internet, click Cancel and try again later.
McAfee recommends that you perform the scan as soon as possible so you can fix any security issues right away.
What do I do if McAfee Security Scan Plus finds that I don’t have web security, firewall protection, or that my antivirus software is out of date?
The McAfee Security Alert advises you on what steps to take to solve any security issues that Security Scan Plus detects.
I fixed the problem that McAfee Security Scan reported, but when I rescan, it still shows that my computer is at risk. What should I do?
Security Scan Plus queries the Windows Security Center for information about your installed security software. Some security products do not immediately report the updated status. Wait a few minutes and then run the scan again. If your computer is still at risk, your antivirus or firewall product might have other problems.
What web security programs does Security Scan Plus check for?
Security Scan Plus checks for the presence of McAfee WebAdvisor.
Does Security Scan Plus scan for all threats on my computer?
Security Scan Plus checks threats only in running processes. To scan the entire computer you must install antivirus software such as McAfee LiveSafe, or McAfee Total Protection.Back to top
Will the McAfee Security Scan Plus update interfere with my work?
No. McAfee Security Scan Plus updates and runs silently in the background.
Why must my PC be connected to the internet?
Your computer must be connected to the internet so that McAfee Security Scan can check for updates.
Yes. Security Scan Plus automatically updates signature files and product updates silently.
Can I change the automatic update settings for Security Scan Plus?
Yes. By default, Security Scan Plus automatically updates every time a scan is run. To disable the automatic update feature, perform the following steps:
- Open Security Scan Plus.
- Click Settings.
- Deselect Automatically update my software during my scheduled scan.
- Click Apply.
How do I schedule an update?
- Open Security Scan Plus.
- Click Settings.
- Select your preferred schedule options.
- Click Apply.
How do I uninstall McAfee Security Scan Plus?
If you are a Windows administrator, you can uninstall McAfee Security Scan from the Start menu.
To learn more about how to uninstall McAfee products on Windows, see TS101331 – How to remove McAfee products from a PC that runs Windows.Back to top
For more information and common questions, see this document.