Open the Windows Security app by searching the start menu for Security, and then selecting Windows Security. Select the Virus & threat protection tile (or the shield icon on the left menu bar). Select Virus & threat protection settings. Toggle the Real-time protection switch to On.
Does Windows Defender work in Windows 11?
Windows Defender is at the forefront of security solutions available in Windows 11. This inbuilt offering protects users against malware with its real-time threat protection functionality. It also includes features like secure boot and firewall protection.
How to reset Windows Defender in Windows 11?
Why can’t I access Windows Defender?
Does Windows 11 have built in antivirus?
Luckily, Windows 11 comes with Windows Security, which includes Microsoft Defender antivirus. Microsoft Defender (previously Windows Defender) is automatically enabled when you set up Windows 11, so you don’t have to do anything to ensure basic protection for your data.
Why can’t I activate Windows Defender?
It’s possible that Windows Defender real-time protection has been turned off on your device. This may make the software look like it’s not opening. It also turns off a huge chunk of Defender’s features, which is not recommended.
Is Windows Defender no longer free?
Why does no one want to use Windows 11?
How do I activate Windows Defender again?
On your Windows 10 computer, navigate to the Windows Logo start menu. From the options displayed, select “Settings” to access the “Settings” window.
Now, click the “Virus & threat protection” option on the right.
In the next screen, slide to activate the “Real-Time Protection” option.
How to fix corrupt Windows Defender?
Restart Your Computer.
Check for Third-Party Antivirus Conflicts.
Update Windows Defender.
Restart the Windows Defender Service.
Run the Windows Security Troubleshooter.
Scan and Repair System Files.
Enable Windows Defender via Group Policy (For Enterprise Users)
How to reinstall Windows Defender for Windows 11?
Open PowerShell as Administrator.
Run the following command to reinstall Windows Defender: Install-WindowsFeature -Name Windows-Defender-Features.
Wait for the installation to complete.
Restart your computer for the changes to take effect:
How does disabling Windows Defender affect my PC?
It is not safe to disable real-time protection, that would leave your PC wide open to a malware infection, it is not just files you download that can infect your PC, there are many other ways malware can get on your PC, for example hackers have bots roaming the Internet that are constantly trying to attack your PC, …
How do I force enable Windows Defender?
Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus. Scroll down and select Microsoft Defender Antivirus. Select either Disabled or Not configured to turn on Defender. Click Apply and then OK.
How to enable Windows Defender in Windows 11 using cmd?
Open Command Prompt.
Run the following command: %ProgramFiles%Windows DefenderMpCmdRun.exe -wdenable.
Restart the device.
How to check if Windows Defender is disabled?
Step 1: select “Update and Security” Step 2: Select “Windows Security” Page 3 Step 3: Look for “Virus & thread protection” If “Virus & threat protection” is not enabled, please do so if you wish.
Does Windows 11 automatically come with Windows Defender?
Microsoft Defender in Windows 11 Yes, Windows 11 does indeed come with Microsoft Defender, formerly known as Windows Defender. Microsoft Defender is a built-in antivirus and security solution that provides comprehensive protection against malware, viruses, and other threats.
Is antivirus still necessary in 2025?
The only operating system that you absolutely do not need to install antivirus software on is iPhones. You also don’t need antivirus software on iPads and iPad Minis, although a bit of extra protection never hurts. However, Windows, macOS, and Androids still need antivirus software.
Which antivirus is best for Windows 11?
The best antivirus for Windows 11 depends on your needs, with Bitdefender often cited for its top-tier performance and comprehensive security features, and Norton recommended for families due to its identity theft protection and features like SafeCam. For a simpler, budget-friendly option, TotalAV is a strong contender for beginners, while Surfshark is ideal if you want a bundled antivirus and VPN. It’s also worth noting that the built-in Microsoft Defender provides a good level of basic, free protection.
How to reactivate Windows Defender in Windows 11?
Under the “Virus & threat protection settings” section, click on Manage settings. 4. Now, enable the “Real-time protection” toggle alongside other toggles on this page to get Windows Defender’s protection back on your Windows 11 PC.
Why is Windows Defender not showing up in Windows 11?
Causes of Missing Windows Defender on Windows 11 The most common reasons for the missing Windows Defender include deleted Windows Defender files or conflicts with another security program. Some other reasons are listed below: You don’t have the latest updates for Windows 11.
How do I fix Windows Defender blocked?
Check for Third-Party Antivirus Software.
Use Group Policy Editor to Enable Windows Defender.
Enable Windows Defender via Registry Editor.
Restart Windows Security Service.
Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Scan.
Scan for Malware.
Is Defender as good as McAfee?
Microsoft Defender only features core features like account protection, virus and threat detection, device security, family options, firewall, and network security. McAfee offers a broader array of advanced features. For example, Defender does not have a privacy management feature, but McAfee does.
How do I install Windows Defender on Windows 11?
Windows Defender is built into Windows 10 and Windows 11, so you don’t need to download or install it. You just need to enable it if it’s turned off. Open Windows Security: Press Windows + S and search for Windows Security, then open it. Check for Protection: Click **”Virus & threat protection”.
Why did Windows Defender turn off?
Malware can turn off Defender and keep it off despite your best efforts to re-enable it. If you aren’t able to turn Defender back on you might be infected. Install and run another malware detector of your choice and see if you can find and remove the infection.
Why do people not like Windows 11 2025?
It takes away features many people were using like left or right side vertical start menu. Some people (not me) really liked live tiles and those have been disabled by default. It buries features people still need to use like mmsys. cpl or ncpa.