May 19, 2021
5 min read
Hackers have always liked Windows because of its popularity and poor security. Windows users are among the most affected by malware, ransomware, or phishing. One of Microsoft’s responses was Windows Defender, which blocks suspicious programs. But what if you want to decide for yourself which programs to install?
Windows Defender SmartScreen, first introduced in Windows 8, protects users against malware and phishing websites, and prevents malicious software downloads. Here’s how Windows Defender SmartScreen works:
You can also report suspicious programs to Microsoft if you think they have malicious intentions.
When Windows detects suspicious behavior, it immediately warns the user that the application might be unsafe. A pop-up appears with the message “This app has been blocked for your protection” and Windows 10 blocks it from launching.
However, you might have encountered a different message — “Windows protected your PC” or “An administrator has blocked you from running this app”. They all mean that Windows Defender SmartScreen prevented an unrecognized app from starting.
But as always, there is a workaround that allows you to install and launch any app you like.
We don’t recommend disabling Windows Defender SmartScreen unless you really know what you’re doing. Otherwise, you can expose yourself to malware and infect your computer.
With that said, not all the applications that SmartScreen blocks are harmful. They can come from reliable developers and have no malicious intentions despite lacking Microsoft’s approval. Sometimes, it can prevent users from installing printers or scanners, and updating their drivers. Especially when trying to connect an older device to a computer.
Windows Defender can overreact, but it has good intentions.
If Windows warns you that an app you want to install might be malicious, do your research before you continue. There are tons of harmful websites that might look very legitimate and professional. If you disable Windows Defender, you might end up with a fake app or malware (our “What is malware?” article will explain this in detail).
Disabling Windows Defender SmartScreen will leave you naked on the internet, so we recommend taking extra security measures.
You can disable Windows Defender SmartScreen, avoid the “This app has been blocked for your protection” error, and install any program you like. Here’s how to change your Windows 10 privacy settings:
After you’ve successfully installed your third-party app, we strongly recommend turning Windows Defender SmartScreen back on again using the same process.
If you haven’t enabled a VPN already, now is a good time to do it. Remember, underestimating the risk of cybercrime is dangerous; you can never be sure where the threats are coming from. NordVPN lets you take control of your digital security.
Trending articles
