Install Malwarebytes for Windows

Once you have purchased a subscription, you can install the Malwarebytes app to protect your Windows device from malware, viruses, and other online threats. If you are installing the app for the first time, follow the instructions below to download, install, and activate the app on your 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 this step if you see any product pop-ups. The Malwarebytes app begins installing on your Windows device.
7. After installation is done, click Open Malwarebytes.
8. On the welcome page, click Activate now.
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: Click Sign in. The Malwarebytes Account login page appears. Enter your email and password, then click Sign in.
   • If using an MB code: Generate the code from the Mobile Security 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 in the app telling you that activation was successful! Click Continue to Dashboard to complete installation and activation of the app on your Windows device.

Run scans during your first install

If you're installing the Malwarebytes app for the first time, you have the one-time option to run a series of scans right from the app's main dashboard to get started on your protection. On the app dashboard, enter your email and click Start scan to start a Device security scan for malicious files on your device, an Online safety can to see if your personal information is available on the internet, and a Trusted Advisor scan to make sure you're making the most of your security features. These scans may take a few minutes, but can be paused any time.