windows defender cannot be started

According to users, sometimes Windows Defender service won't start because of file corruption. Your system files can get corrupted and that can cause this error to appear. However, you can fix the problem simply by running an SFC scan. ... Press Windows Key + X to open Win + X menu.

1. How do I fix Windows Defender not turning on?
2. How do I force Start Windows Defender?
3. Why is my Windows Defender not opening?
4. Why can't I turn on Windows Defender Windows 10?
5. How do I restore Windows Defender?
6. Why is my Windows Defender antivirus turned off?
7. Why can't I turn on Windows Defender Windows 7?
8. How do I troubleshoot Windows Defender?
9. How can I tell if Windows Defender is on?
10. How do I restore Windows Defender in Windows 10?
11. How do I update Windows Defender?

How do I fix Windows Defender not turning on?

4) Restart the Security Center Service

• Press Windows key + Rg > launch Run. Type services. msc > hit Enter or click OK.
• In Services, search for Security Center. Right-click on Security Center> > click on Restart.
• Once you restart the required services, check if the problem with Windows Defender is resolved.

How do I force Start Windows Defender?

Turn on Windows Defender

1. Select the Start menu.
2. In the search bar, type group policy. ...
3. Select Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Defender Antivirus.
4. Scroll to the bottom of the list and select Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus.
5. Select Disabled or Not configured. ...
6. Select Apply > OK.

Why is my Windows Defender not opening?

Type “Windows Defender” in the search box and then press Enter. Click Settings and make sure there is a checkmark on Turn on real-time protection recommend. On Windows 10, open Windows Security > Virus protection and toggle the Real-Time Protection switch to On position.

Why can't I turn on Windows Defender Windows 10?

If Windows Defender real-time protection won't turn on Windows 10, then you should check its settings. Sometimes, the date and time settings are the reason why Windows Defender won't turn on. Using dedicated software solves the failure of the Windows Defender antivirus to turn on in Windows 10.

How do I restore Windows Defender?

How to Reset Windows Defender Firewall

1. Navigate to the Start menu and open the Control Panel.
2. Click on the Windows Defender tab and choose the Restore defaults option from the left side panel.
3. Click on the Restore defaults button and confirm your action by clicking Yes in the confirmation window.

Why is my Windows Defender antivirus turned off?

If Windows Defender is turned off, this may be because you have another antivirus app installed on your machine (check Control Panel, System and Security, Security and Maintenance to make sure). You should turn off and uninstall this app before running Windows Defender to avoid any software clashes.

Why can't I turn on Windows Defender Windows 7?

To do this, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features in Windows 7 or navigate to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program in Windows 10/8. ... Finally, restart your PC and try launching Windows Defender again to see if it can be turned on for virus, spyware and other threats protection.

How do I troubleshoot Windows Defender?

To resolve this issue, you may need to uninstall and reinstall the Windows Defender.
...
To start the Windows Defender service again, perform the following:

1. Click Start, Type Run. ( You can also use Win Key + R)
2. Type services.msc.
3. Right-click Windows Defender service and Click Start.

How can I tell if Windows Defender is on?

Option 1: In your System tray click on the ^ to expand the running programs. If you see the shield your Windows Defender is running and active.

How do I restore Windows Defender in Windows 10?

Open the classic Control Panel (not Settings). Click on Windows Defender Firewall. Click on Restore defaults. Click on Restore defaults a second time.

How do I update Windows Defender?

1. Open the Windows Defender Security Center by clicking the shield icon in the task bar or searching the start menu for Defender.
2. Click the Virus & threat protection tile (or the shield icon on the left menu bar).
3. Click Protection updates. ...
4. Click Check for updates to download new protection updates (if there are any).