Windows 11 Virus & Threat Protection Not Working (2024 Fixes)

Key Takeaways

• #️⃣Virus and Threat Protection not working is caused by conflicts between third-party antivirus and built-in programs or settings.
• #️⃣Twelve solutions are provided in the following content to fix the issue effectively.
• #️⃣Creating a backup of your computer is necessary to add extra protection for your device in case of hardware failure or misoperation.

There is no denying the fact that Windows offers enough security checks to keep its users safe. A good approach in this regard is the availability of virus and threat protection built-in options. This feature can keep you safe from harmful attacks on your system.

However, it has been seen that many users are facing problems with this option. The most common issue is Windows 11 virus and threat protection not working. Have you faced this situation and are looking for a solution? Read this guide as we will discuss a few effective tips to resolve this problem.  

12 Fixes – Virus and Protection Not Working on Windows

Every user tries different methods to fix the problems with the virus and threat protection facility of Windows 11. But some of those just waste your time. So, we have found the methods that are working for others to save you time.

1. Update Windows

The first method you should try is updating Windows, as it can be a problem creating this issue with the threat detection facility. You can follow these steps to complete this task.

Step 1. Go to Settings and open the Update & Security section.

Step 2. Look for Windows Update and tap on Check for Updates option.

Your system will check for available updates and install them in your system. Try using this option to check if the issue has been solved.

2. Reset Windows Security Service

It might be possible that you have made some changes in the Windows security app that are making it hard for the feature to work. So, follow these steps to reset the settings of Windows security.

Step 1. Go to Settings and look for Installed Apps. Find Windows Security from the list and right-click on it.

Step 2. Choose App Settings and click on the Reset button.

It will reset all settings that you have made in this application.

3. Check & Restart Windows Security Settings

Another way to resolve this problem is restarting Windows security settings. You can do this by following these steps.

Step 1. Search for Services in the Windows search bar and open the app.

Step 2. Look for Windows Security Service and start it.

Step 3. If it is already started, turn it off and start it again.

These steps may help you overcome the issue and resolve this virus detection problem.

4. Use Windows Security Offline Scan

If nothing has worked for you regarding Windows 11 virus and threat protection not working, you can go with this option. Try using the offline scanning option available in your system.

Step 1. Go to Windows Security from your device's settings.

Step 2. Open Virus & Threat Protection and click on Scan Options.

Step 3. Choose Microsoft Defender Offline Scan and click on the Scan Now button.

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5. Disable Third-party Antivirus

It might be possible that some third-party antivirus software conflicts with the built-in virus protection feature. So, you should try disabling/uninstalling it to resolve this issue.

Step 1. Go to Settings and open the Apps section.

Step 2. Look for your concerned antivirus and click on it.

Step 3. Tap on the Uninstall button to move ahead with the solution.

6. Perform a Full System Scan

You can also perform a full system scan to find the issue and resolve it. It may help your system's virus and threat protection work again.

Step 1. Go to Windows Security and open Virus and Threat Protection.

Step 2. Click on Scan Options given under Current Threats option.

Step 3. Tap on Full Scan and then click the Scan Now button.

7. Change the Group Policy Settings

By changing the group policy setting, you can also resolve this issue. So, follow these steps to perform this check and find out if the issue is solved.

Step 1. Tap Windows + R and type gpedit.msc in the dialogue box.

Step 2. Follow this path: Computer configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Security > Virus and Threat Protection

Step 3. Make sure that it is set as Not Configured, if not, change it to this setting.

Now, close the Windows and try using this feature again. It might be possible your issue has been resolved.

8. Reset Your Computer

Sometimes, changes in one application may be affecting the processing of virus and threat protection features. You can also try resetting your computer to resolve the issue.

Step 1. Go to Settings and then choose Updates & Security.

Step 2. Click on Recovery and then Reset this PC.

Step 3. Tap on Get Started and follow the on-screen instructions to complete it.

9. Run Windows Security Troubleshooter

You can also run the troubleshooter by following these steps.

Step 1. Go to Settings and choose Update & Security.

Step 2. Click on the Troubleshooter option to complete this task.

10. Perform SFC and DISM

You can also run system file checking and DISM to resolve this issue.

Step 1. Press Windows + R to open the dialogue box.

Step 2. Type sfc /scannow after the second line in the box.

Step 3. Once a new window is opened, type DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth and enter

The scan will take a few minutes to complete. When it is done, restart your system to check if the issue is resolved.

11. Check Your Date and Time Settings

Another solution that can be adopted is checking the date and time of your device. You should set it to let the system work smoothly, as it won't work if the time and date aren't accurate.

12. Seek Help from Microsoft Support

If nothing has worked for you, it is recommended to contact Microsoft support and ask them for a solution. They will surely guide you through the problem and its solution accordingly. In turn, you will be able to resolve the issue.

Windows 11 virus and threat protection not working is indeed an annoying issue. If you are seeking a better solution, TotalAV is a good choice. It offers top-notch security features, including a smart firewall, VPN, malware and virus scans, password protection, device optimization, real-time protection, etc. Ensure you purchase your subscription plan today. 

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Pro Tip: Better Way to Safeguard Your Computer from All Aspects

Having an antivirus tool installed on your PC can prevent many issues caused by malware. Undoubtedly, your computer may face any technical issues, like a hard drive failing. To keep your files safe, choose an effective software like EaseUS Todo Backup Free. It is the finest software available on the internet, with advanced options to backup data.

Using this, you can schedule the data backup and keep your files in cloud storage. In turn, it is possible to get your data back even if your system has faced an error. Along with this, you can experience multiple advanced options in this software.

We recommend downloading this software and keeping yourself safe from data loss.

[Causes] Why Windows Virus & Protection Not Working?

There can be multiple reasons behind this issue. However, some common issues are conflicts between third-party antivirus and built-in programs. Along with this, it might be possible that some settings are creating this error in your system.

Wrapping Up

In this blog, we have discussed how to resolve Windows 11 virus and threat protection not working issues. We hope you have found the solution to get your system back in the smooth working. It is recommended to use EaseUS Todo Backup to keep your data safe.

With this, you won't even lose your data if you have to reinstall Windows in your system. In simple words, your data will be saved in the cloud from where you can download it anytime.

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FAQs on Windows 11 Virus and Threat Protection Not Working

1. How do I reactivate virus and threat protection?

You can reactivate virus and threat protection using these steps.

• Go to "Windows Security."
• Look for "Virus and Threat Protection" and open it
• Toggle on all the buttons given on the screen

2. How do I enable Microsoft antivirus on Windows 11?

You can easily install Microsoft antivirus on Windows 11 by browsing the Windows Security option and following the on-screen instructions.

3. Is Microsoft Defender antivirus included in Windows 11?

Yes, Microsoft Defender antivirus is included in Windows 11. It is a built-in feature to protect you from any malware attack.