Why does Windows Security block Windows executable files?

Question

Hi,

I have Windows 11 and keep getting notifications about executable files that are being blocked access to my controlled folders - this has been happening for years and is beyond frustrating. When I've done an online search for the filenames, to see if I need to be worried about viruses/malware, the results I get say that the files are Windows files. When I do an online search for why these files are being blocked, I see that a lot of people have asked this question too, but there aren't any results that actually explain what is happening. I've seen results for this forum, but haven't seen any answers that address it either. I would think that any Windows files would have access to my controlled folders without me having to give permission every time I get the notification. In the last 1/2 hour, I've gotten several of these notifications (normally I don't get a storm of notifications, so this is extra concerning). Out of sheer frustration, I've included screenshots of the protection history for several of these files, so hopefully, I can get some comprehensive explanation(s) as to what's going on.

I have wanted to ask this question for as long this has been happening (again, for years), but I've had so many problems with Windows and calling Microsoft for support, that it feels like an exercise in futility to try to get an answer that's even partially helpful.

Also, I have an hp laptop, and any time I try to do an hp update, Windows Security blocks that .exe file too. I bought the laptop a few years ago, and Windows 11 was installed, so I assumed that hp updates would be trusted.

Thanks in advance for any helpful and thoroughly detailed answers!

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Answer 1

Yes, this has happened to me too. Perhaps the Windows 11 Antivirus is a bit overzealous.