Windows 10: I need help turning on Windows Defender in 8.1

Hello. I recently removed my Kaspersky Anti Virus using the removal tool. I then restarted my computer and still cannot get Defender to work. I keep getting error message "The app has been turned off and needs to be turned on". I went to the Action center and tried to turn on Defender, but keep getting the same error message. Does anyone have any ideas? I have searched the computer and cannot find any trace of any anti virus program installed. Thanks for your help.

:)

 

windows defender & security center services keep turning off


Are you running any other AV or did you have one running in the past? If you didn't use an uninstaller for the AV, then the remnants of it could be causing the problem. Normally any time you install an AV it disables Defender by default.

If you are getting any error codes please list those, that will be helpful in helping you.

As torre suggested, might be a good idea to do a reset or even a reinstall.

Reset Windows 10 - Windows 10 Forums

Windows 10 - Clean Install - Windows 10 Forums

There are also some suggestions listed here:

Unable to turn on Windows Defender in Windows 7 / 8 / 10

 

How to turn on Windows defender in Windows 10

Hello,

I realize the inconvenience you are experiencing with Windows 10. I will certainly help you.


Windows Defender is the default real-time (always on) protection program in Windows 8, 8.1 and 10.

If there are any third party security software installed, then Windows Defender will get disabled automatically.

I suggest you to follow the steps below and check if it help:

• 
  Open Settings by either clicking on the Settings icon on the Start menu or simultaneously pressing Windows and I keys.
  
• 
  Click on Update & Security.
  
• 
  Click on Windows Defender, and on the left right side, turn on.
  

Hope this helps in resolving the issue. If the issue persists, do get back to us. We will be happy to assist you.

Thank you.

 

Unable to turn off Windows Defender

Hello,

Thank you for posting your query on Microsoft Community.

As per description, you are unable to turn off windows defender.

I suggest you try restarting Windows Defender service and check if issue is resolved. To do so kindly follow the below given steps:

• Press Windows key + X key and type services.msc,
  hit enter.
• Search Windows Defender Service.:1) Windows Defender Service ; 2)
  Windows Defender Network.
• Right click on each and press Start.
• Restart your computer and check if issue persist.

Hope this information is helpful. Please do let us know if you need further assistance with Windows, we’ll be glad to assist you.