Our verdict: HouseCall is a handy second opinion when you suspect an infection: it runs without uninstalling your current antivirus and offers quick, full and custom scans. It is a one-off scanner, not protection, so it does nothing between scans.
About Trend Micro HouseCall
HouseCall is Trend Micro's free scanner for Windows. It detects and cleans viruses, worms, spyware and other malware, and Trend Micro states that it works alongside existing antivirus programs, so you do not need to remove yours first.
You choose a Quick Scan of critical system files, a Full System Scan or a Custom Scan of selected folders. Trend Micro says a quick scan takes a few minutes and a full or custom scan can take several hours, depending on drive size and connection speed. After the scan, a report lists the threats found and lets you remove them. The product page also promotes Trend Micro's paid security suites.
What it does well
- Quick, full and custom scans. Check critical system files in minutes or scan whole drives and chosen folders.
- Threat removal. Cleans the malware it finds so the PC returns to normal.
- Threat report. Shows which threats were found on the device and what was done.
- Works with other antivirus. Runs next to your installed security software without conflicts.
- No subscription. Free to use without buying a Trend Micro product.
Who it is for
Good fit
People who want a free second-opinion scan when they suspect malware on a Windows PC.
Look elsewhere
Anyone looking for always-on protection; HouseCall only scans when you start it.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free with no subscription
- Works next to your existing antivirus
- Quick, full and custom scan modes
Cons
- No real-time protection between scans
- Full scans can take hours
- Windows only
How to install Trend Micro HouseCall
Download HouseCall from the official product page and run it; it fetches its scan components when it starts, so keep the PC online. Start with a Quick Scan, and run a Full System Scan if anything is found. Review the results before removing items.
Questions about Trend Micro HouseCall
Is Trend Micro HouseCall free?
Yes. HouseCall is a free scanner from Trend Micro. It does not require buying any Trend Micro product.
Do I need to uninstall my antivirus to use HouseCall?
No. Trend Micro states that HouseCall works with other antivirus programs.
Does HouseCall protect my PC all the time?
No. It only scans when you run it. For constant protection you need a regular antivirus such as Microsoft Defender.
