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How to Fix Windows Defender Real-Time Protection Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Windows Defender Real-Time Protection is an essential feature that helps keep your computer safe by continuously monitoring for threats. Sometimes, this feature might stop working properly, leaving your device vulnerable. Fortunately, fixing this problem is usually straightforward.

This guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to restore Real-Time Protection on Windows 11. Each solution is explained clearly to ensure you can follow along without any confusion.

By the end of this article, you will know how to troubleshoot and fix the issue, helping you maintain strong security on your PC. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.

Remember, keeping your system protected is critical, so addressing this issue promptly is important.

Quick Note: Before You Start

Before attempting any fixes, here are a few quick checks to ensure the problem isn’t caused by simple settings:

  • Check if Real-Time Protection is turned on: Sometimes, it may be accidentally disabled.
  • Make sure Windows Defender is your active antivirus: Other antivirus programs can disable Defender automatically.
  • Restart your PC: A simple restart can resolve many temporary glitches.
  • Ensure Windows is up to date: Updates often fix bugs that cause issues with Defender.

Step 1: Turn Real-Time Protection On Manually

First, verify if Real-Time Protection is enabled in Windows Security settings. Here’s how:

  1. Click the Start button and open Settings.
  2. Go to Privacy & Security on the left panel.
  3. Select Windows Security, then click on Virus & Threat Protection.
  4. Under Virus & Threat Protection Settings, click Manage Settings.
  5. Look for the Real-Time Protection toggle and make sure it is turned On.

If it was off, switching it on might fix the issue immediately. If it’s on but still not working, proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Run Windows Security Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a troubleshooter designed to detect and fix common security issues automatically.

  1. Open Settings and go to System.
  2. Click Troubleshoot and then select Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Windows Security in the list and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool can identify problems that are not obvious and apply fixes without your manual intervention.

Step 3: Check for Conflicting Antivirus Software

Third-party antivirus programs often disable Windows Defender to avoid conflicts. If you recently installed another antivirus, it might be causing the problem.

  • Open Settings and go to Apps & Features.
  • Look for any antivirus software other than Windows Defender.
  • If you find one, consider temporarily disabling or uninstalling it to see if Defender’s protection returns.

After uninstalling, restart your PC and check if Real-Time Protection is working again.

Step 4: Use Group Policy Editor to Enable Real-Time Protection

This step is for users comfortable with advanced settings. Sometimes, Group Policy settings disable Real-Time Protection.

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus > Real-Time Protection.
  3. Find the setting named Turn off real-time protection.
  4. Double-click it and set it to Disabled or Not Configured.
  5. Click Apply and OK.
  6. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

This method forces Windows Defender to enable Real-Time Protection if it was disabled by policy.

Step 5: Reset Windows Security App

If the Windows Security app itself is malfunctioning, resetting it might fix the problem.

  1. Open Settings and go to Apps > Installed Apps.
  2. Search for Windows Security.
  3. Click the three dots next to it and select Advanced Options.
  4. Scroll down and click Reset.
  5. Confirm the reset and wait for it to complete.

Resetting clears app data and restores default settings, which can resolve glitches.

Step 6: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

Corrupted system files can interfere with Windows Defender. Running a system scan can repair these files.

  1. Press Win + S and type cmd.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

The scan will check and repair corrupted system files. This process can take some time, so be patient.

Once complete, restart your computer and check if Real-Time Protection is working.

Alternative Method: Enable Defender Using PowerShell

If the issue persists, you can try enabling Defender via PowerShell:

  1. Search for PowerShell, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Enter the following command and press Enter:
Set-MpPreference -DisableRealtimeMonitoring $false

This command forces Real-Time Protection to turn on.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is Windows Defender Real-Time Protection turning off by itself?

This can happen if another antivirus is installed, certain system policies are enabled, or system files are corrupted.

Can I use Windows Defender with another antivirus?

Generally, it’s not recommended because they can conflict and disable Defender’s Real-Time Protection.

Is it safe to reset the Windows Security app?

Yes, resetting only affects app settings and doesn’t remove your files or virus definition updates.

How do I know if Real-Time Protection is working?

Check the Windows Security app under Virus & Threat Protection. It should show Real-Time Protection as On and no warnings.

What if I don’t have Group Policy Editor?

Group Policy Editor is only available in Windows 11 Pro and higher. For Home editions, you can modify the registry carefully or use PowerShell commands.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the issue, you can try the following:

  • Perform a system restore: Roll back your computer to a previous point when Defender was working.
  • Check for malware: Use a bootable antivirus scanner from a USB drive.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Windows Security support page for professional assistance.

Conclusion

Windows Defender Real-Time Protection is vital for your computer’s security. When it stops working, it’s important to fix it quickly to maintain safety. Starting with simple checks and moving towards advanced settings ensures you cover all possible causes without unnecessary complications.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can restore Real-Time Protection on your Windows 11 PC and keep your system secure from threats. Remember to keep your system updated and avoid running multiple antivirus programs simultaneously to prevent conflicts in the future.

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