Windows Security has NO response??

Question

Hi

As far as I remember, my Windows Security was working previously. Today, I just clicked 'quick scan' but nothing happened. I tried to click 'scan option' then chose full screen. Everything seemed normal until clicking 'scan now' - again - no response at all.

"Current Threats" showed: No current threats. Last scan: Not available.... if memory serves, I have at least scanned once manually...

I clicked "Check for update". Again, nothing happened.

I tried to turn on Ransomware protection but it did not allow me as well.

Help, please !

Answer 1

Many thanks Greg. After the Defender issue, my PC frozen and it suggested a re-start. Luckily, everything seemed fine after that.

Hopefully I will never need to take the steps you suggested. But if I do face similar problem in the future, I will try them.

Have a nice weekend.

Answer 2

Hello, I'm Greg, here to help you with this.

When Windows Defender is broken the first thing we have to check is that there is no infection using the most thorough method, then check for broken System files, then if necessary the known fixes and finally if nothing else helps do a simple Repair Install:

1. Here is how to do the most thorough disinfection to make sure any infection is found and properly cleaned up, and then fix any System Files it damages: https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/for...
2. Now type Security in Search, open Security Center and check if all functions are working. If Defender is still not working try these fixes next:

https://thegeekpage.com/windows-defender-wont-s...

https://www.kapilarya.com/fix-windows-defender-...

https://www.digitbin.com/fix-windows-defender-n...

https://www.technipages.com/fix-windows-11-cann...

https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-11-fix-window...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aR0W1ltf3ic

3. If that doesn't fix it then you can do a Windows 11 Repair Upgrade which reinstalls Windows while saving your files and apps in place, brings it up to the latest version by the most stable method, takes about an hour and resolves most problems: https://www.elevenforum.com/t/repair-install-wi...

If you want to keep Malwarebytes as an on-demand scanner then you can turn off its Real Time trial version using the slider buttons on it's front panel. I recommend it as the #1 tool for your toolbox. For best WIndows performance, use built-in Defender which gives adequate real-time protection.

Feel free to ask back any questions. Please report back results for all steps given so I know what else to suggest if necessary.

______________________________________________

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.

Due to it's critical importance and a risk Defender was disabled by an attack, we first need to check for infection by the most thorough methods, then for damaged System Files, and finally with known fixes for Defender. Please follow all steps in order. I am standing by to help you.

Do this thorough disinfection regimen to clean up anything found, find and fix any broken system files;

Now type Security in Search box, open Windows Security to see what the Status of Defender and other protections are now.

If Defender is still broken, try these fixes next:

https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/protect/for...

https://thegeekpage.com/windows-defender-wont-s...

https://www.technewstoday.com/windows-defender-...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85uFt8EPsHU

If nothing else works then do a Repair Install, by installing Media Creation Tool, open tool and choose to Upgrade Now. This reinstalls Windows while keeping files, programs and most settings in place, is the most stable method to advance to the latest version, and solves most problems:

I hope this helps. Feel free to ask back any questions and let us know how it goes. I will keep working with you until it's resolved.

______________________________________________

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.