Windows

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install Bitdefender Antivirus on a Windows device:

1. Create a Bitdefender Account

Before installing, you need a Bitdefender Central account to manage your subscription and devices.

• Visit Bitdefender Central.

• Click Create account if you don’t have one.

• Fill in the required information (name, email, password) and click Create.

• Confirm your account via the email confirmation link.

If you already have a Bitdefender account, just log in.

2. Download Bitdefender

Once logged in to Bitdefender Central:

• Navigate to the My Devices section.

• Click Install Bitdefender.

• Select This device if you are installing it on your current Windows machine.

• Click Download to start downloading the Bitdefender installer.

3. Run the Installer

After the download finishes:

• Go to your Downloads folder.

• Double-click the Bitdefender installer file (typically named bitdefender_windows.exe).

4. Install the Software

Follow the prompts to complete the installation process:

• A Bitdefender setup window will appear. Click Install.

• The software will start downloading the necessary files from the internet, which may take a few minutes depending on your connection.

• Once the download is complete, the installation will proceed automatically.

• After the installation, click Start Device Assessment to perform a basic scan of your system.

5. Activate Bitdefender

To activate your Bitdefender subscription:

• After the installation, you will be prompted to log in to Bitdefender Central.

• Once logged in, Bitdefender will automatically synchronize with your account, and your subscription will be activated.

If you have an activation code, you can redeem it in Bitdefender Central by navigating to My Subscriptions and selecting Activate with code.

6. Run an Initial Scan

After installation:

• Open the Bitdefender app from the Start Menu or system tray.

• Run an initial system scan by clicking Scan Now to check your computer for any potential threats.

• Bitdefender will also perform real-time protection and updates automatically in the background.

7. Configure Settings (Optional)

Bitdefender has many features you can configure to suit your needs, such as:

• Web Protection: Protects you from phishing sites and online scams.

• Ransomware Remediation: Automatically backs up your files if ransomware is detected.

• Firewall: Monitors your network connections to block unwanted access.

• Parental Controls: Restrict content for children, if needed.

These settings can be accessed from the Protection, Privacy, and Utilities tabs within the Bitdefender interface.

8. Keep Bitdefender Updated

Ensure Bitdefender is regularly updated by allowing it to download and install updates automatically. Bitdefender will do this in the background to ensure you're always protected against the latest threats.