Can't activate Windows Defender even though I uninstalled AVG

Question

My AVG subscription expired and I decided to rely on Windows Defender going forward.  I uninstalled all AVG software, but Windows Defender won't let me activate it because it thinks I still have AVG installed.  I have restarted a couple of times, still no luck.

Answer 1

Alan,

Go to Security and Maintenance, Look in Security and see what program is listed under Virus Protection.

In the search box enter security and maintenance then select Security and Maintenance.

Windows Defender will not launch if there is a 3rd party registered.

~

Also, verify that you have removed all other rəal-time anti-malware products that were ever installed on your PC, including free/trial product that were installed when the PC was purchased (Norton, McAfee, AVG, Malwarebytes (paid), etc).

Then, use the cleanup tools <<Avast>>

• <<AVG>>
• <<Avira>>
• <<Bitdefender>>
• <<ESET>>
• <<F-Secure>>
• <<Kaspersky>>
• <<McAfee>>
• <<Microsoft Security Essentials>> - <<Norton>>
• <<Panda>>
• <<Trend Micro>>, etc

Restart after you run their removal tool, whether prompted to do so or not. REBOOT

~

Answer 2

I'm having a similar problem. But despite having already run the appropriate cleanup tools Windows Defender still states I'm using another AV. Do I need a clean install of windows defender, too?

Answer 3

Hi,

There's a big possibility that there are left entries of the third-party antivirus in the registry that's why your Windows Defender doesn't activate. We suggest that you check those entries and remove from the registry. Before you do so, we HIGHLY suggest that you seek help from the support team of your antivirus so you would know the files to be removed. This is to avoid surfacing issues.

Should you have any other concerns, feel free to post back on this forum.