Windows 10: Virus scan on Firefox download keeps failing

I just received a new laptop that has Windows 11 home installed. I've tried several times to install Firefox and keep getting the 'virus scan failed'. I've looked on Microsoft Store and Firefox is not listed in there although it still shows up when I search for in on my desktop PC that runs on Windows 10. I can't pause the virus scan at all since that option is not available in Windows 11. I've followed all the suggestions for resolving suggested to users with the same problem, except for the Regedit route. I'm getting close to de-activating S-mode but would like to find a less drastic option

:)

 

Downloading files - VIRUS SCAN FAILED

Hi Everyone,

I keep getting the message VIRUS SCAN FAILED when I try and download files from all sites on the internet.

However can download Windows Updates.

Any suggestions would be extremely welcomed.

Thank you in advance,

John

 

"Virus Scan Failed" Couldn't download a darn thing.

Thank you for your prompt response, I will attempt the suggestion you listed in your response. I'll keep you apprised of the result.

In answer to your question, It was the same continuous error. Virus scan failed. As changing that particular setting didn't do anything, still same error.

 

Error: Couldn't download - virus scan failed message when trying to download a program

Hi,



Thank you for writing to Microsoft Community Forums.



I understand that you receive an error, 'Couldn't download - virus scan failed message' when trying to download a program. I'll certainly assist you with this.



However, please let us know:

• May I know the program that you are trying to download?
• Which browser are you using?
• Are you able to download any other programs?

I would suggest you to try using a different browser like Microsoft Edge and see if that helps.



If you are receiving this error while using Google Chrome, I would suggest you to refer the section
"Virus scan failed" or "Virus detected" in the article Fix file download errors
and see if that helps.



Note: Important this section, method, or task contains steps that tell you how to modify the registry. However, serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly. Therefore, make sure that you follow
these steps carefully. For added protection, back up the registry before you modify it. Then, you can restore the registry if a problem occurs.



Refer the article How to back up and restore the registry in Windows



I would also recommend you to create a system restore point.



Let us know the results, we will be glad to help you further.



Regards,

Nikhar Khare

Microsoft Community – Moderator