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Windows 11 includes several built-in security features designed to keep your device safe from malware and potentially unwanted apps. One important tool is Reputation-Based Protection, which helps prevent malicious software from running on your computer. This feature uses Microsoft’s cloud-based intelligence to assess the safety of files and apps before they run.

Enabling Reputation-Based Protection is a simple way to add an extra layer of security to your system. It works quietly in the background to block harmful apps, helping you avoid infections and unwanted software.

In this guide, we will walk you through enabling and using Reputation-Based Protection in Windows 11, step by step. We will cover everything from checking your system to configuring the settings properly.

By the end, you will understand how this protection works and how to keep it active on your PC for safer everyday use.

Quick Note: What You Need Before You Start

• Your device should be running Windows 11 with the latest updates installed. Keeping Windows updated ensures compatibility and access to the newest security features.
• You need to have Microsoft Defender Antivirus enabled, as Reputation-Based Protection works alongside it.
• Make sure you have administrative privileges on your PC. Without these rights, you won’t be able to change security settings.
• Internet connection is recommended since Reputation-Based Protection uses cloud-based intelligence to evaluate apps in real time.

Step 1: Open Windows Security Settings

First, you need to access the Windows Security app, where all the protection settings are located. To do this:

1. Click the Start button or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
2. Type Windows Security in the search bar.
3. Select the Windows Security app from the search results to open it.

Opening the Windows Security app is essential because this is where you can manage all security features, including Reputation-Based Protection.

Step 2: Navigate to App & Browser Control

Once inside the Windows Security app:

1. Look at the left-hand menu and click on App & browser control.
2. This section contains settings that help protect your device from potentially harmful apps and files.

This is where you will find the options to enable and customize Reputation-Based Protection.

Step 3: Enable Reputation-Based Protection Settings

In the App & browser control area, you will see a section called Reputation-based protection. To turn it on:

1. Click on the link that says Reputation-based protection settings.
2. In the new window, you will see several toggle switches:
• Check apps and files: This scans apps and files downloaded from the internet to block anything suspicious.
• SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge: This protects you while browsing by blocking dangerous sites and downloads.
• Potentially unwanted app blocking: This blocks apps that may cause unexpected behavior or show unwanted ads.
3. Turn on all these toggles by clicking them so they switch to On.

Enabling these options ensures Windows actively checks apps and websites for threats before you open or download anything.

Step 4: Customize Protection Level (Optional)

If you want to adjust how strict the protection is:

1. Under Potentially unwanted app blocking, click the dropdown menu.
2. You can choose from:
• Block apps: This will block all potentially unwanted apps automatically.
• Warn only: This mode will notify you but allow you to choose whether to keep the app.
3. Select the option that best fits your comfort level with security and control.

This customization is helpful if you want to avoid interruptions but still be informed about risky software.

Step 5: Test the Protection

To make sure Reputation-Based Protection is working:

1. Try downloading a harmless test file designed to trigger SmartScreen warnings (such as the EICAR test file).
2. If Reputation-Based Protection is active, Windows Security will warn you or block the file from running.

Testing helps confirm that the feature is enabled and functioning as expected, giving you peace of mind.

Alternative Method: Using Group Policy Editor

If you prefer or need to enable Reputation-Based Protection via Group Policy (mainly for advanced users or in business environments):

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
3. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus > Windows Defender Exploit Guard > Reputation-based Protection.
4. Double-click Configure reputation-based protection and set it to Enabled.
5. Click Apply and then OK.

This method allows administrators to enforce protection policies on multiple devices.

FAQs About Reputation-Based Protection in Windows 11

What exactly does Reputation-Based Protection do?

It blocks or warns you about files and apps that Microsoft’s cloud service identifies as suspicious or harmful, helping you avoid malware and unwanted software.

Is Reputation-Based Protection turned on by default?

It is usually enabled by default, but it’s good to double-check your settings to make sure it’s active.

Will Reputation-Based Protection slow down my PC?

No, it runs quietly in the background and uses cloud intelligence, so it has minimal impact on system performance.

Can I turn off Reputation-Based Protection?

Yes, but it is not recommended unless you have another security solution in place, as it helps protect your device from threats.

Why am I still getting warnings after enabling it?

Warnings mean the system is doing its job by notifying you about potentially dangerous files or apps. You can choose to block or allow them based on the information provided.

When Nothing Works: Final Steps and Resources

If you find that Reputation-Based Protection is not working as expected, try the following:

• Restart your computer to ensure all settings are applied correctly.
• Check for Windows updates in Settings > Windows Update and install any pending updates.
• Run a full Microsoft Defender Antivirus scan to rule out infections interfering with protection.
• Reset Windows Security app by going to Settings > Apps > Apps & features, find Windows Security, click Advanced options, then select Reset.
• Visit the official Microsoft support page for Windows Security: Windows Security Help & Support.

If problems persist, consider reaching out to Microsoft support for further assistance.

Conclusion

Reputation-Based Protection in Windows 11 is a valuable security feature that helps keep your device safe from harmful apps and files. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can enable and customize this protection to suit your needs. Remember, keeping your system updated and using Microsoft Defender Antivirus alongside Reputation-Based Protection maximizes your security. Regularly reviewing these settings ensures continuous protection while you work, browse, and download safely.