This is not a permanent solution, but it's the best option to disable the protection to make system changes or install programs that are causing conflicts.

Or you can use the same instructions outlined above, but in step 5, make sure to turn on the Real-time protection toggle switch.

Here's how to do it.Once you complete the steps, the antivirus will temporarily disable its protection to install apps or make specific system changes without unwanted conflicts.Īfter restarting the computer, the antivirus will enable again automatically. While we recommend you have the SmartScreen filter turned on all the time, you can disable it easily from the Windows Security settings. However, some experienced users may find the feature annoying as it can even block safe apps requiring additional steps to run the setup. SmartScreen is enabled by default on all the Windows OS running systems. When enabled, it helps protect your computer against malicious and phishing sites and block downloads. SmartScreen is also part of Microsoft Edge's security settings. It can also protect you from Microsoft Store and third-party sourced apps that are low on reputation and known to cause unexpected behavior. You can configure it to block apps and files by checking unrecognized apps and files from the web. When a match is found, it blocks the download or site access and warns the user about the action taken. When enabled, SmartScreen screens your downloads against known suspicious sites and developers. SmartScreen relies on reputation-based protection to protect your device from malicious or potentially unwanted apps and websites. How Does Windows SmartScreen Filter Work?

How to turn windows defender off