If you see a “Security Subscription Expired” error on your Windows 10 PC, it means your antivirus or security software has stopped updating. This can leave your computer vulnerable to threats.
Fixing this issue is important to keep your system protected from viruses and malware. Fortunately, resolving this error is usually straightforward.
In this guide, we will walk you through simple, step-by-step instructions to fix the subscription error and restore your security protection.
Follow each step carefully, and your antivirus should start working normally again.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Make sure your PC is connected to the internet. Updates require an active internet connection.
- Check if your Windows 10 is up to date. Sometimes, outdated system files can cause subscription errors.
- Have your antivirus account credentials ready if you need to reactivate or renew your subscription.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Before diving into complex fixes, simply restart your PC. This basic step can solve many temporary glitches that cause subscription errors.
Restarting refreshes system processes and can often restore your antivirus subscription status.
Step 2: Check Your Subscription Status
Open your antivirus program and look for the subscription or account section. Verify if your subscription is actually expired or if it’s a false alert.
- If your subscription is expired, proceed to renew it.
- If it appears active, try logging out and back in to refresh the connection.
Step 3: Renew or Reactivate Your Subscription
If your subscription has truly expired, you need to renew it to continue receiving updates and protection.
- Visit the official website of your antivirus provider.
- Log in to your account using your credentials.
- Purchase or renew the subscription plan.
- After renewal, open the antivirus software and enter any new activation code if prompted.
Renewing your subscription is essential because security updates stop when the subscription expires, leaving your PC at risk.
Step 4: Update Your Antivirus Software Manually
Sometimes, the subscription error appears due to outdated software. Manually updating the antivirus can fix this.
- Open your antivirus program.
- Find the “Update” option, usually located in the main menu or settings.
- Click “Check for updates” or similar.
- Wait for the update process to complete.
Manual updates force the software to connect to the servers and refresh your subscription status.
Step 5: Run Windows Update
Windows updates often include important security patches and improvements that can affect your antivirus software.
- Click the Start menu and open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
- Restart your PC if required.
Keeping Windows updated ensures compatibility and smooth functioning of security software.
Step 6: Repair or Reinstall Your Antivirus Software
If the subscription error persists, repairing or reinstalling your antivirus can help fix corrupted files or settings.
To Repair:
- Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
- Find your antivirus program in the list.
- Select it and click Change or Repair.
- Follow the prompts to complete the repair.
To Reinstall:
- Uninstall the antivirus from the same Programs and Features window.
- Download the latest version from the official website.
- Install the software and activate your subscription again.
Reinstalling ensures you have a fresh, working copy of the antivirus program.
Alternative Method: Use Windows Defender Temporarily
If you need immediate protection while fixing your third-party antivirus subscription, use Windows Defender, the built-in Windows 10 security tool.
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
- Click Virus & threat protection.
- Make sure Windows Defender is turned on.
This provides basic protection until your main antivirus subscription is restored.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does the “Security Subscription Expired” error appear?
This error shows up when your antivirus subscription has ended or the software cannot verify an active subscription due to connectivity or software issues.
Can I continue using my antivirus without renewing the subscription?
Most antivirus programs stop receiving updates once the subscription expires, which reduces protection. It’s not recommended to continue without renewal.
How do I check if my subscription is active?
Open your antivirus software and navigate to the subscription or account section. You can also log in to your provider’s website to verify.
Will uninstalling and reinstalling the antivirus delete my files?
No, uninstalling antivirus software does not delete your personal files. However, make sure to back up important data as a precaution.
What if I can’t renew my subscription online?
Contact your antivirus provider’s customer support for assistance with renewal issues.
When Nothing Works
If the steps above don’t resolve the “Security Subscription Expired” error, consider contacting the antivirus software’s official support. They can provide specialized help tailored to your product.
You can also visit the official Microsoft support site for additional Windows 10 security guidance: Microsoft Support.
As a last resort, you might want to switch to a different antivirus program that fits your needs better.
Conclusion
Fixing the “Security Subscription Expired” error on Windows 10 is crucial to keep your device safe. Start with simple steps like restarting your PC and checking your subscription status.
Renew or reactivate your subscription if needed, and update your antivirus software manually. Running Windows Update and repairing or reinstalling the antivirus can fix deeper issues.
If you need immediate protection, Windows Defender can serve as a temporary solution. Always keep your security software active and updated to protect your computer from threats.