Microsoft Defender Antivirus is a built-in security feature that comes with Windows 10. This antivirus software is designed to protect your computer from malware, viruses, and other harmful threats. However, some users have reported that they are unable to turn on Microsoft Defender Antivirus. If you are facing the same issue, then this article is for you.
Reasons behind Microsoft Defender Antivirus not turning on
There can be multiple reasons why Microsoft Defender Antivirus is not turning on. Some of the most common reasons are:
Third-party antivirus software
If you have installed third-party antivirus software on your computer, it may conflict with Microsoft Defender Antivirus. Some antivirus software may disable Microsoft Defender Antivirus to prevent conflicts.
Outdated Windows 10 version
If you are using an outdated version of Windows 10, you may face issues with Microsoft Defender Antivirus. Microsoft releases regular updates to fix bugs and improve the performance of Windows 10 and its built-in features.
Malware infection
If your computer is infected with malware, it may disable Microsoft Defender Antivirus. Malware is designed to avoid detection by antivirus software and can take control of your computer.
How to fix Microsoft Defender Antivirus not turning on
If you are unable to turn on Microsoft Defender Antivirus, here are some solutions to fix the issue:
Uninstall third-party antivirus software
If you have installed third-party antivirus software on your computer, try uninstalling it to see if it resolves the issue. To uninstall the software, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features, select the antivirus software, and click Uninstall.
Update Windows 10
If you are using an outdated version of Windows 10, update it to the latest version. To check for updates, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
Run a malware scan
If you suspect that your computer is infected with malware, run a full system scan using Microsoft Defender Antivirus or any other reliable antivirus software.
Restart Windows Security Service
Windows Security Service is responsible for running Microsoft Defender Antivirus. If the service is stopped or not running properly, you may face issues with Microsoft Defender Antivirus. To restart the service, press Windows key + R, type "services.msc" and press Enter. Find the Windows Security Service, right-click on it, and select Restart.
Conclusion
Microsoft Defender Antivirus is a crucial security feature that protects your computer from malware and other harmful threats. If you are unable to turn on Microsoft Defender Antivirus, try the solutions mentioned in this article to fix the issue. By following these solutions, you can ensure that your computer is protected from all kinds of threats.
