Windows 10: Microsoft Defender Smart App Control

Last year I had briefly used Microsoft Defender as my anti-virus protection. However, I also switched to a third-party anti-virus. With that one-year subscription running out, I decided I don't want to payout money for another year, so I have gone back to Microsoft Defender. I have noticed that Smart App control is turned off and I have read how it must be turned back on, which is something I don't want to do. However, since I rarely download apps and when I do, its from trusted and reputable sources. I am wondering if during the month and half I used Microsoft Defender the application determi

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Smart App Control

Hi Taylor. I'm Greg, 10 years awarded Windows MVP, specializing in Installation, Performance, Troubleshooting and Activation, here to help you.

You can turn off Smart App Control as shown here:

https://websiteforstudents.com/how-to-turn-on-o...

https://www.ghacks.net/2022/03/07/smart-app-con...

For guidance on how Microsoft screens apps for Smart App Control see here:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/topic/what-...

Feel free to ask back any questions. Based on the results you post back I may have other suggestions if necessary.

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Standard Disclaimer: There are links to non-Microsoft websites. The pages appear to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the sites that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the sites before you decide to download and install it.

 

Smart App Control was automatically turned off even though it was on

Hi

Welcome to Microsoft community.

I understand you're having trouble with Smart App Control turning off automatically after installing a Windows Update (KB5031455). However, updates can sometimes cause unexpected issues due to the complexity of the software involved.

Here are some steps you can try to resolve this issue:

1. Check the Smart App Control settings: It's possible that the settings for Smart App Control were reset during the update. Go to Windows Security > App & Browser Control > Reputation-based Protection Settings, and check if Smart App Control is turned on.
   
2. Check for conflicts: It's also possible that another security setting or software is conflicting with Smart App Control. If you have other security software installed, try disabling it temporarily to see if that resolves the issue.
   
3. Update or reinstall Windows: If the problem persists, try installing the latest updates for Windows, or if necessary, reinstalling Windows. Before you do this, it's a good idea to back up any important data.
   

Please feel free to let me know if you have any further updates, thanks.

Best regards

Derrick Qian | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

 

Smart App Control - Windows 11

Hi David,

Welcome to Microsoft Community.

I'm Hahn and I'm here to help you with your concern.

I'm sorry to hear that you are having problems with Smart App Control on Windows 11. Smart App Control is a new security feature that blocks untrusted apps downloaded from unidentified sources. It analyzes the downloaded software for verified digital imprints using its cloud algorithm to determine whether the app is safe to run on the system or not.

If Smart App Control is causing problems with some apps that you trust, such as Intel Driver Support Assistant:

- There is currently no way to bypass Smart App Control protection for individual apps. You can turn Smart App Control off, or (better yet), contact the developer of the app and encourage them to sign their app with a valid signature.

- You can turn off Smart App Control permanently, but this may open you up to danger from malicious apps. To turn off Smart App Control, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > App & browser control > Smart App Control settings, and select Off. Please note that turning Smart App Control off is irreversible, as it can only be turned back on when installing Windows.

What is Smart App Control? - Microsoft Support

If you've been experiencing Smart App Control black screen issues, you can send this through Feedback Hub. In Windows, go to the Feedback Hub. (from the Start menu or press Windows key + F). When you get to Step 2 - Choose a category, select Security and Privacy - Smart App Control.

I hope this helps. If there is anything not clear, please do not hesitate to let me know.



Your Sincerely

| Microsoft Community Support Specialist