Install Desktop Security on Windows devices

Once you purchase a subscription, you can start protecting your device against malware, viruses, and other threats with the app. If you have already purchased a subscription and are installing the app for the first time, follow the instructions below to download, install, and activate the app on your Windows device.

Before installing the app, check if your device is compatible with the system requirements.

1. Download the app for Windows.
   Note: If you receive a Not a verified Microsoft app error, go to this article to resolve the issue.
2. Double-click the MBsetup.exe installation file to open it. If a pop-up appears, click Yes to allow installation.
3. In the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard, click Install to begin the installation.

4. On the next screen, choose your device type:

   • Personal: A device you or your family own for home and personal use.

   • Business: A device owned by your company or place of employment, like Malwarebytes for Teams customers. Business protection does not have the VPN feature. 

5. Click Next.

6. Click Skip for now if you see any product pop-ups. The Desktop Security app begins installing on your Windows device.

7. After installation is done, click Open Malwarebytes.

8. On the welcome page, click I already have a subscription.
9. You'll be directed to a new screen where you can sign in to your Malwarebytes account, enter a license key, or enter an MB code to enable your subscription.
   • If using your account: Enter your email and password, then click Sign in.
   • If using an MB code: Generate the code from the Mobile Security app, VPN app, or your account. Then enter the code into the activation field and click Activate.
   • If using a license key: Enter the key into the field, then click Activate.
10. After activating, you'll see a screen telling you that activation was successful! Click Finish to complete installation and activation of the app on your Windows device.

Run scans during your first install

If you're installing the Desktop Security app for the first time, you have the one-time option to run a series of scans right from the welcome page to get started on your protection. On the welcome page, click Scan now to start a complete system scan for malicious files on your device, a Trusted Advisor scan to make sure you're making the most of your security features, and a Digital Footprint Scan to see if your personal information is available on the internet. These scans can be skipped or exited at any time.