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How to Disable Windows Defender SmartScreen: 5 Easy Steps
Disable SmartScreen from your Edge browser
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Windows Defender SmartScreen helps protect you against web-based threats by checking URLs against a list of known malicious websites, which hackers often use to spread viruses and other types of malware.
Some people disable Windows Defender SmartScreen because itslows down their PCor they don’t like the messages it pops up. If this sounds like some of the issues that make you want to disable Windows Defender SmartScreen, below are ways to go about it.
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Should I disable Windows Defender SmartScreen?
Windows Defender SmartScreen is a built-in feature of Windows 11 that provides a layer of protection against malware and phishing attacks. While it can be disabled, it should only be done after careful consideration.
SmartScreen helps protect your PC by warning you before you run unrecognized apps. However, sometimes, it can block unrecognized apps. You may get aMicrosoft defender SmartScreen prevented an unrecognized app from startingmessage.
This can prevent these apps from launching, which can be frustrating, especially if these are your most used apps.
Other reasons why disabling Windows Defender SmartScreen is a bad idea:
If you find that SmartScreen is making your PC slow or unresponsive, it’s better to find alternative ways toimprove your PC’s performance.
How do I disable Windows Defender SmartScreen?
1. Use the Microsoft Edge browser
2. Use the Control Panel
3. Use Windows Defender
For some users, the option to disable the Smartscreen will be greyed out. This means that your organization manages those settings, and you can’t make changes. You can contact your administrator to disable them if you don’t need them.
4. Use the Group Policy
5. Use the Registry Editor
And that’s how to disable SmartScreen from the registry. We highly recommend you try the four other methods and only use the registry if necessary. Editing the registry can be disastrous, especially for novices.
To cushion yourself from any after-effects that could render your PC unusable, ensure youcreate a restore pointfirst. This way, you’ll have a point of return if anything goes wrong.
We also have an exciting article on what to do if yourWindows Defender SmartScreen is blocked.
Share with us any additional thoughts on this topic in the comment section below.
More about the topics:Microsoft Windows Defender
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.
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Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.
