Windows Defender blocks applications: What you can do

Sometimes Windows Defender takes its job too closely. It always wants to guarantee full security and therefore likes to block applications and files that look suspicious - wrongly. We show you how to get around this.

Windows Defender is very sensitive to some files.

Not all files that fail the security check are real threats. In these cases, the solution is obvious: you need to disable Windows Defender briefly.

Windows Defender blocks apps or files? How to turn it off

Proceed as follows:

1. First click on the Windows icon in the lower left corner and then on the cogwheel to open the settings.
2. Here you now switch to the "Update and Security" menu.
3. Open "Windows Security".
4. Click on "Virus & Threat Protection".
5. Open the "Settings for Virus & Threat Protection" and then on "Manage settings".
6. Set the switch at "Real-time protection" to "Off". This should usually be sufficient; otherwise, you will also need to turn off cloud-based protection.

The program or file that was previously blocked should now work. However, be sure to remember to re-enable Defender immediately afterwards, otherwise the PC will remain unprotected. If the file is stored locally, you should also disconnect from the Internet for this time.It is equally important to know exactly that the blocked file is not dangerous. Because with Defender disabled, viruses, Trojans and other malware will find their way onto your computer unhindered.