How to Add VirusTotal to Windows: A Step-by-Step Guide

 Hi all , today we will cover the topic on Virus total tool, As we all knows cybersecurity is a paramount concern for both individuals and organizations. 

VirusTotal is a free online service that analyzes files & URLs to identify viruses, worms, trojans, and other malicious content using a multitude of antivirus engines. Integrating VirusTotal into your Windows system can provide an additional layer of protection.

In this article, we'll explain all the steps how to add VirusTotal in your windows environment.

Step 1: Visit the VirusTotal Website

Begin by opening your preferred web browser and navigating to the VirusTotal website at www.virustotal.com.

Step 2: Sign Up for an Account (Optional)

While you can use VirusTotal without an account, creating one provides additional features and allows you to keep track of your scans. Click on the "Sign Up" button and follow the prompts to create an account if you wish.

Step 3: Download the VirusTotal Uploader

Next, you'll need to download the VirusTotal Uploader. This is a lightweight application that allows you to easily upload files for scanning directly from your Windows system.

Go to the "Tools" menu on the VirusTotal website.

Select "VirusTotal Uploader" from the dropdown menu.

Click on the "Download" button to get the application.

Step 4: Install the VirusTotal Uploader

Locate the downloaded file (usually in your Downloads folder) and double-click it to start the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Step 5: Configure the VirusTotal Uploader

Once installed, open the VirusTotal Uploader. If you created an account, log in using your credentials. If not, you can still use the application without logging in.

Step 6: Upload Files for Scanning

To scan a file, simply drag and drop it onto the VirusTotal Uploader window. The application will automatically start the scanning process and display results from multiple antivirus engines.

Step 7: View Scan Reports

After the scan is complete, you'll receive a detailed report showing the results from various antivirus engines. This information can help you assess the potential threat level of the file.

Step 8: Configure Browser Extensions (Optional)

VirusTotal offers browser extensions that allow you to scan URLs and files directly from your browser. If you'd like to add this functionality, visit the "Tools" section on the VirusTotal website and select the appropriate browser extension for your preferred browser.

Step 9: Integrate with Email Clients (Optional)

For an added layer of protection, VirusTotal offers plugins for various email clients. These plugins allow you to scan email attachments before opening them. Visit the Tools section on the VirusTotal website to find the plugin for your email client.

By following these steps, you'll have successfully integrated VirusTotal into your Windows system, enhancing your cybersecurity defenses. Regularly scanning files and URLs with VirusTotal can help you stay ahead of potential threats and keep your system safe.

Remember, while VirusTotal is a powerful tool, it's important to continue practicing good cybersecurity habits, such as avoiding suspicious links and being cautious with email attachments. With a combination of tools and best practices, you can create a robust defense against online threats.