![Activating/Deactivating Windows 11'S Anti-Phishing Filter](https://thmb.techidaily.com/861e642d844db4b2f3d772a017498464c5809d87279c75b02518b1d6b111bfc3.jpg)
Activating/Deactivating Windows 11'S Anti-Phishing Filter
![](/images/site-logo.png)
Activating/Deactivating Windows 11’S Anti-Phishing Filter
Key Takeaways
- Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is enabled by default in Windows and provides reputation-based protection against malicious apps and websites. It can be disabled if it mistakenly blocks safe files.
- SmartScreen is also a part of Microsoft Edge’s security settings and can be turned off or on from the browser’s settings menu. It helps protect against phishing sites and blocks potentially unwanted apps.
- SmartScreen can be turned off or on using various methods, including the Windows Security settings, Microsoft Edge settings, Internet Properties dialog, Registry Editor, and Group Policy Editor. It is recommended to enable SmartScreen for added PC security.
Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is part of the Windows Security solution. It helps you protect against common threats by warning against downloading or installing potentially malicious files from other computers.
SmartScreen is enabled by default in Windows. However, sometimes, you may want to disable the feature if it identifies and blocks genuine apps and files as malicious. Fortunately, you can disable SmartScreen easily. Here, we show you how to disable the SmartScreen filter in Windows.
How Does Windows SmartScreen Filter Work?
SmartScreen relies on reputation-based protection to protect your device from malicious or potentially unwanted apps and websites.
When enabled, SmartScreen screens your downloads against known suspicious sites and developers. When a match is found, it blocks the download or site access and warns the user about the action taken.
You can configure it to block apps and files by checking unrecognized apps and files from the web. It can also protect you from Microsoft Store and third-party sourced apps that are low on reputation and known to cause unexpected behavior.
SmartScreen is also part of Microsoft Edge’s security settings . When enabled, it helps protect your computer against malicious and phishing sites and block downloads.
SmartScreen is enabled by default on all the Windows OS running systems. However, some experienced users may find the feature annoying as it can block safe apps, requiring additional steps to run the setup.
While we recommend you always turn the SmartScreen filter on, you can disable it easily from the Windows Security settings. Here’s how to do it.
1. How to Turn Off SmartScreen Using Windows’ Security Settings
The easiest way to turn off SmartScreen is via the Windows Settings panel. You can configure all the aspects of your system security from the Windows Security panel. Here’s how to do it.
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Open the Privacy and Security tab in the left pane.
- Click on Windows Security.
- Next, click on Open Windows Security.
- Open the App & browser control tab in the left pane.
- Click on Reputation-based protection settings under Reputation-based protection.
- Here, you’ll find four different SmartScreen filters you can individually enable or disable. If you want to turn off the filter for files and executables, turn off Check apps and files and Potentially unwanted app blocking filters. The other two filters are for Microsoft Edge and Microsoft Store apps.
Take advantage of PREMIUM features for 12 months.
Create your texts / logos without any limitation.
No attribution required when downloading.
No advertising on the website.
TextStudio.com PREMIUM - Yearly Membership - If you want to turn off SmartScreen completely, disable all four filters.
When you have difficulty accessing the Windows Security window, refer to our troubleshooting guide to fix a blank Windows security screen .
If any of the SmartScreen filters are grayed out with the message “this setting is managed by your administrator,” you must contact your administrator or try another method.
2. How to Disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge has a built-in option to enable and disable Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. Here’s how to access it:
- Launch Microsoft Edge and click the three-dots menu icon in the top right corner.
- Click on Settings.
- Open the Privacy, search, and services tab in the left pane.
- Scroll down to the Security section.
- Toggle the switch for Microsoft Defender SmartScreen to turn it off. This will disable the Block potentially unwanted apps option as well.
- If you choose to enable SmartScreen again, you must manually enable the Block potentially unwanted apps feature.
Additionally, you can disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge using the Windows Security app and Registry Editor. Here’s how to do it.
Disable Microsoft Edge SmartScreen Using Windows Security
Microsoft Edge SmartScreen is for your browsing safety against phishing and malware sites and software you download. Unless an administrator manages it, you can turn it off.
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type windowsdefender:// and click OK to open the Windows Security app.
- Open the App & browser control tab in the left pane.
- Next, click the Reputation-based protection settings link under Reputation-based protection.
- Toggle the switch for SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge to turn off Microsoft Defender SmartScreen for the Edge browser.
Disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge Using Registry Editor
Editing the registry entry is an alternative (but more complicated) method to disable the SmartScreen for the Edge browser permanently.
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor.
- Next, navigate to the following location:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Edge\SmartScreenEnabled
- In the right pane, right-click on the Default value and select Modify.
- Type 1 in the Value data field and click OK to save the changes.
- You may need to restart your computer to see the changes live.
3. How to Turn Off Windows Defender SmartScreen Using Internet Properties
You can turn on or off Windows Defender SmartScreen using the Internet Properties dialog in Windows 10. Also known as Internet Options, it lets you configure security and access settings, add-ons, Active-X controls, and more.
Follow these steps to turn off SmartScreen using Internet Options:
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type control and click OK to open the Control Panel.
- Click on Network and Internet.
PaperScan Professional: PaperScan Scanner Software is a powerful TWAIN & WIA scanning application centered on one idea: making document acquisition an unparalleled easy task for anyone.
- Next, click on Internet Options.
- In the Internet Properties window, open the Advanced tab.
- Scroll down to the Security section.
- Uncheck the Enable Windows Defender SmartScreen option.
- Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
On a newer version of Windows, including Windows 11, you may not find any option to enable or disable Windows Defender SmartScreen in Internet Properties.
4. How to Enable or Disable SmartScreen Using Registry Editor
You can also turn the Windows Defender SmartScreen on or off using the Registry Editor. Useful if you cannot access it from the Settings app or Internet Properties.
Note that incorrect modification to the registry entries can cause system malfunction. Therefore, create a restore point before proceeding with the steps below.
Press Win + R to open Run.
Type regedit and click OK to open the Registry Editor. Click Yes if prompted by UAC to grant administrative privilege.
In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following location:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\SystemIn the right pane, locate the EnableSmartScreen filter value. You will need to create a new value if no value is found.
To create a new value, right-click on the System key and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Rename the value as EnableSmartScreen.
Next, right-click on the EnableSmartScreen value and select Modify.
Type 0 in the Value data field and click OK to save the changes.
To enable the SmartScreen filter, type 1 in the Value data field and click OK.
Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC to apply the changes.
You can further tweak the registry to create a new String Value to set the blocking level to Warn or Block. Using Warn will show a SmartScreen warning with an option to proceed. In contrast, the Block option will show a warning and block the app from running on your computer.
To set a new ShellSmartScreenLevel String Value in Registry Editor:
- Right-click on the System subkey and select New > String Value. Rename the value as ShellSmartScreenLevel.
Easy and Safe Partition Software & Hard Disk Manager
- Next, right-click on ShellSmartScreenLevel and select Modify.;
- Type Warn or Block depending on what you want the SmartScreen Level to do. Click OK to save the changes and exit Registry Editor.
5. How to Turn the SmartScreen Filter On or Off Using the Group Policy Editor
If you want to manage the SmartScreen filter for multiple computers at your organization, you can use the Group Policy Editor to do this task.
Note that Group Policy Editor is only available on Windows Pro, Edu, and Enterprise editions of the OS. If you are using Home, explore our guide to enable Group Policy Editor on the Windows Home edition .
To configure the SmartScreen filter using GPEdit:
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type gpedit.msc and click OK to open the Group Policy Editor.
- Next, navigate to the following location in Group Policy Editor:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > File Explorer.
- In the right pane, right-click on Configure Windows Defender SmartScreen policy and select Edit.
- To disable SmartScreen, select Disabled.
- If you want to enable SmartScreen, select Not Configured or Enabled.
- Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
- Close Group Policy Editor and restart your PC.
Manage the SmartScreen Filter in Windows
While you can easily disable the SmartScreen filter in Windows, it is an extremely useful security tool. It can protect you against malicious files and programs and screen and block suspicious sites. It’s an added layer of protection to Windows Defender and helps keep your PC safe. Make sure to enable the SmartScreen filter once the task is finished.
Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is part of the Windows Security solution. It helps you protect against common threats by warning against downloading or installing potentially malicious files from other computers.
SmartScreen is enabled by default in Windows. However, sometimes, you may want to disable the feature if it identifies and blocks genuine apps and files as malicious. Fortunately, you can disable SmartScreen easily. Here, we show you how to disable the SmartScreen filter in Windows.
How Does Windows SmartScreen Filter Work?
SmartScreen relies on reputation-based protection to protect your device from malicious or potentially unwanted apps and websites.
When enabled, SmartScreen screens your downloads against known suspicious sites and developers. When a match is found, it blocks the download or site access and warns the user about the action taken.
You can configure it to block apps and files by checking unrecognized apps and files from the web. It can also protect you from Microsoft Store and third-party sourced apps that are low on reputation and known to cause unexpected behavior.
SmartScreen is also part of Microsoft Edge’s security settings . When enabled, it helps protect your computer against malicious and phishing sites and block downloads.
SmartScreen is enabled by default on all the Windows OS running systems. However, some experienced users may find the feature annoying as it can block safe apps, requiring additional steps to run the setup.
While we recommend you always turn the SmartScreen filter on, you can disable it easily from the Windows Security settings. Here’s how to do it.
1. How to Turn Off SmartScreen Using Windows’ Security Settings
The easiest way to turn off SmartScreen is via the Windows Settings panel. You can configure all the aspects of your system security from the Windows Security panel. Here’s how to do it.
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Open the Privacy and Security tab in the left pane.
- Click on Windows Security.
- Next, click on Open Windows Security.
- Open the App & browser control tab in the left pane.
- Click on Reputation-based protection settings under Reputation-based protection.
- Here, you’ll find four different SmartScreen filters you can individually enable or disable. If you want to turn off the filter for files and executables, turn off Check apps and files and Potentially unwanted app blocking filters. The other two filters are for Microsoft Edge and Microsoft Store apps.
- If you want to turn off SmartScreen completely, disable all four filters.
When you have difficulty accessing the Windows Security window, refer to our troubleshooting guide to fix a blank Windows security screen .
If any of the SmartScreen filters are grayed out with the message “this setting is managed by your administrator,” you must contact your administrator or try another method.
2. How to Disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge has a built-in option to enable and disable Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. Here’s how to access it:
- Launch Microsoft Edge and click the three-dots menu icon in the top right corner.
- Click on Settings.
- Open the Privacy, search, and services tab in the left pane.
- Scroll down to the Security section.
- Toggle the switch for Microsoft Defender SmartScreen to turn it off. This will disable the Block potentially unwanted apps option as well.
- If you choose to enable SmartScreen again, you must manually enable the Block potentially unwanted apps feature.
Additionally, you can disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge using the Windows Security app and Registry Editor. Here’s how to do it.
Disable Microsoft Edge SmartScreen Using Windows Security
Microsoft Edge SmartScreen is for your browsing safety against phishing and malware sites and software you download. Unless an administrator manages it, you can turn it off.
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type windowsdefender:// and click OK to open the Windows Security app.
- Open the App & browser control tab in the left pane.
- Next, click the Reputation-based protection settings link under Reputation-based protection.
- Toggle the switch for SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge to turn off Microsoft Defender SmartScreen for the Edge browser.
Disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge Using Registry Editor
Editing the registry entry is an alternative (but more complicated) method to disable the SmartScreen for the Edge browser permanently.
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor.
- Next, navigate to the following location:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Edge\SmartScreenEnabled
- In the right pane, right-click on the Default value and select Modify.
- Type 1 in the Value data field and click OK to save the changes.
- You may need to restart your computer to see the changes live.
3. How to Turn Off Windows Defender SmartScreen Using Internet Properties
You can turn on or off Windows Defender SmartScreen using the Internet Properties dialog in Windows 10. Also known as Internet Options, it lets you configure security and access settings, add-ons, Active-X controls, and more.
Follow these steps to turn off SmartScreen using Internet Options:
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type control and click OK to open the Control Panel.
- Click on Network and Internet.
- Next, click on Internet Options.
- In the Internet Properties window, open the Advanced tab.
- Scroll down to the Security section.
- Uncheck the Enable Windows Defender SmartScreen option.
- Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
On a newer version of Windows, including Windows 11, you may not find any option to enable or disable Windows Defender SmartScreen in Internet Properties.
4. How to Enable or Disable SmartScreen Using Registry Editor
You can also turn the Windows Defender SmartScreen on or off using the Registry Editor. Useful if you cannot access it from the Settings app or Internet Properties.
Note that incorrect modification to the registry entries can cause system malfunction. Therefore, create a restore point before proceeding with the steps below.
Press Win + R to open Run.
Type regedit and click OK to open the Registry Editor. Click Yes if prompted by UAC to grant administrative privilege.
In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following location:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\SystemIn the right pane, locate the EnableSmartScreen filter value. You will need to create a new value if no value is found.
To create a new value, right-click on the System key and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Rename the value as EnableSmartScreen.
Next, right-click on the EnableSmartScreen value and select Modify.
Type 0 in the Value data field and click OK to save the changes.
To enable the SmartScreen filter, type 1 in the Value data field and click OK.
Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC to apply the changes.
You can further tweak the registry to create a new String Value to set the blocking level to Warn or Block. Using Warn will show a SmartScreen warning with an option to proceed. In contrast, the Block option will show a warning and block the app from running on your computer.
To set a new ShellSmartScreenLevel String Value in Registry Editor:
- Right-click on the System subkey and select New > String Value. Rename the value as ShellSmartScreenLevel.
- Next, right-click on ShellSmartScreenLevel and select Modify.;
- Type Warn or Block depending on what you want the SmartScreen Level to do. Click OK to save the changes and exit Registry Editor.
5. How to Turn the SmartScreen Filter On or Off Using the Group Policy Editor
If you want to manage the SmartScreen filter for multiple computers at your organization, you can use the Group Policy Editor to do this task.
Note that Group Policy Editor is only available on Windows Pro, Edu, and Enterprise editions of the OS. If you are using Home, explore our guide to enable Group Policy Editor on the Windows Home edition .
To configure the SmartScreen filter using GPEdit:
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type gpedit.msc and click OK to open the Group Policy Editor.
- Next, navigate to the following location in Group Policy Editor:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > File Explorer.
- In the right pane, right-click on Configure Windows Defender SmartScreen policy and select Edit.
- To disable SmartScreen, select Disabled.
- If you want to enable SmartScreen, select Not Configured or Enabled.
- Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
- Close Group Policy Editor and restart your PC.
Manage the SmartScreen Filter in Windows
While you can easily disable the SmartScreen filter in Windows, it is an extremely useful security tool. It can protect you against malicious files and programs and screen and block suspicious sites. It’s an added layer of protection to Windows Defender and helps keep your PC safe. Make sure to enable the SmartScreen filter once the task is finished.
Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is part of the Windows Security solution. It helps you protect against common threats by warning against downloading or installing potentially malicious files from other computers.
SmartScreen is enabled by default in Windows. However, sometimes, you may want to disable the feature if it identifies and blocks genuine apps and files as malicious. Fortunately, you can disable SmartScreen easily. Here, we show you how to disable the SmartScreen filter in Windows.
It will help you to write dynamic data reports easily, to construct intuitive dashboards or to build a whole business intelligence cockpit.
KoolReport Pro package goes with Full Source Code, Royal Free, ONE (1) Year Priority Support, ONE (1) Year Free Upgrade and 30-Days Money Back Guarantee.
Developer License allows Single Developer to create Unlimited Reports, deploy on Unlimited Servers and able deliver the work to Unlimited Clients.
How Does Windows SmartScreen Filter Work?
SmartScreen relies on reputation-based protection to protect your device from malicious or potentially unwanted apps and websites.
When enabled, SmartScreen screens your downloads against known suspicious sites and developers. When a match is found, it blocks the download or site access and warns the user about the action taken.
You can configure it to block apps and files by checking unrecognized apps and files from the web. It can also protect you from Microsoft Store and third-party sourced apps that are low on reputation and known to cause unexpected behavior.
SmartScreen is also part of Microsoft Edge’s security settings . When enabled, it helps protect your computer against malicious and phishing sites and block downloads.
SmartScreen is enabled by default on all the Windows OS running systems. However, some experienced users may find the feature annoying as it can block safe apps, requiring additional steps to run the setup.
While we recommend you always turn the SmartScreen filter on, you can disable it easily from the Windows Security settings. Here’s how to do it.
1. How to Turn Off SmartScreen Using Windows’ Security Settings
The easiest way to turn off SmartScreen is via the Windows Settings panel. You can configure all the aspects of your system security from the Windows Security panel. Here’s how to do it.
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Open the Privacy and Security tab in the left pane.
- Click on Windows Security.
- Next, click on Open Windows Security.
- Open the App & browser control tab in the left pane.
- Click on Reputation-based protection settings under Reputation-based protection.
- Here, you’ll find four different SmartScreen filters you can individually enable or disable. If you want to turn off the filter for files and executables, turn off Check apps and files and Potentially unwanted app blocking filters. The other two filters are for Microsoft Edge and Microsoft Store apps.
- If you want to turn off SmartScreen completely, disable all four filters.
When you have difficulty accessing the Windows Security window, refer to our troubleshooting guide to fix a blank Windows security screen .
If any of the SmartScreen filters are grayed out with the message “this setting is managed by your administrator,” you must contact your administrator or try another method.
2. How to Disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge has a built-in option to enable and disable Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. Here’s how to access it:
- Launch Microsoft Edge and click the three-dots menu icon in the top right corner.
- Click on Settings.
- Open the Privacy, search, and services tab in the left pane.
- Scroll down to the Security section.
- Toggle the switch for Microsoft Defender SmartScreen to turn it off. This will disable the Block potentially unwanted apps option as well.
- If you choose to enable SmartScreen again, you must manually enable the Block potentially unwanted apps feature.
Additionally, you can disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge using the Windows Security app and Registry Editor. Here’s how to do it.
Disable Microsoft Edge SmartScreen Using Windows Security
Microsoft Edge SmartScreen is for your browsing safety against phishing and malware sites and software you download. Unless an administrator manages it, you can turn it off.
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type windowsdefender:// and click OK to open the Windows Security app.
The BootIt Collection covers multi-booting, partitioning, and disk imaging on traditional PC’s using the standard BIOS and newer PC’s using UEFI. The collection includes BootIt Bare Metal (BIBM) for standard BIOS systems and BootIt UEFI (BIU) for UEFI system.
- Open the App & browser control tab in the left pane.
- Next, click the Reputation-based protection settings link under Reputation-based protection.
- Toggle the switch for SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge to turn off Microsoft Defender SmartScreen for the Edge browser.
Disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge Using Registry Editor
Editing the registry entry is an alternative (but more complicated) method to disable the SmartScreen for the Edge browser permanently.
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor.
- Next, navigate to the following location:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Edge\SmartScreenEnabled
- In the right pane, right-click on the Default value and select Modify.
- Type 1 in the Value data field and click OK to save the changes.
- You may need to restart your computer to see the changes live.
3. How to Turn Off Windows Defender SmartScreen Using Internet Properties
You can turn on or off Windows Defender SmartScreen using the Internet Properties dialog in Windows 10. Also known as Internet Options, it lets you configure security and access settings, add-ons, Active-X controls, and more.
Follow these steps to turn off SmartScreen using Internet Options:
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type control and click OK to open the Control Panel.
- Click on Network and Internet.
- Next, click on Internet Options.
- In the Internet Properties window, open the Advanced tab.
- Scroll down to the Security section.
- Uncheck the Enable Windows Defender SmartScreen option.
- Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
On a newer version of Windows, including Windows 11, you may not find any option to enable or disable Windows Defender SmartScreen in Internet Properties.
4. How to Enable or Disable SmartScreen Using Registry Editor
You can also turn the Windows Defender SmartScreen on or off using the Registry Editor. Useful if you cannot access it from the Settings app or Internet Properties.
Note that incorrect modification to the registry entries can cause system malfunction. Therefore, create a restore point before proceeding with the steps below.
Press Win + R to open Run.
Type regedit and click OK to open the Registry Editor. Click Yes if prompted by UAC to grant administrative privilege.
In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following location:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\SystemIn the right pane, locate the EnableSmartScreen filter value. You will need to create a new value if no value is found.
Software Update Pro - Check and update software installed on your computer.
To create a new value, right-click on the System key and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Rename the value as EnableSmartScreen.
Next, right-click on the EnableSmartScreen value and select Modify.
Type 0 in the Value data field and click OK to save the changes.
To enable the SmartScreen filter, type 1 in the Value data field and click OK.
Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC to apply the changes.
You can further tweak the registry to create a new String Value to set the blocking level to Warn or Block. Using Warn will show a SmartScreen warning with an option to proceed. In contrast, the Block option will show a warning and block the app from running on your computer.
To set a new ShellSmartScreenLevel String Value in Registry Editor:
- Right-click on the System subkey and select New > String Value. Rename the value as ShellSmartScreenLevel.
- Next, right-click on ShellSmartScreenLevel and select Modify.;
- Type Warn or Block depending on what you want the SmartScreen Level to do. Click OK to save the changes and exit Registry Editor.
5. How to Turn the SmartScreen Filter On or Off Using the Group Policy Editor
If you want to manage the SmartScreen filter for multiple computers at your organization, you can use the Group Policy Editor to do this task.
Note that Group Policy Editor is only available on Windows Pro, Edu, and Enterprise editions of the OS. If you are using Home, explore our guide to enable Group Policy Editor on the Windows Home edition .
To configure the SmartScreen filter using GPEdit:
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type gpedit.msc and click OK to open the Group Policy Editor.
- Next, navigate to the following location in Group Policy Editor:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > File Explorer.
- In the right pane, right-click on Configure Windows Defender SmartScreen policy and select Edit.
- To disable SmartScreen, select Disabled.
- If you want to enable SmartScreen, select Not Configured or Enabled.
Parental Control Software
- Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
- Close Group Policy Editor and restart your PC.
Manage the SmartScreen Filter in Windows
While you can easily disable the SmartScreen filter in Windows, it is an extremely useful security tool. It can protect you against malicious files and programs and screen and block suspicious sites. It’s an added layer of protection to Windows Defender and helps keep your PC safe. Make sure to enable the SmartScreen filter once the task is finished.
Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is part of the Windows Security solution. It helps you protect against common threats by warning against downloading or installing potentially malicious files from other computers.
SmartScreen is enabled by default in Windows. However, sometimes, you may want to disable the feature if it identifies and blocks genuine apps and files as malicious. Fortunately, you can disable SmartScreen easily. Here, we show you how to disable the SmartScreen filter in Windows.
How Does Windows SmartScreen Filter Work?
SmartScreen relies on reputation-based protection to protect your device from malicious or potentially unwanted apps and websites.
When enabled, SmartScreen screens your downloads against known suspicious sites and developers. When a match is found, it blocks the download or site access and warns the user about the action taken.
You can configure it to block apps and files by checking unrecognized apps and files from the web. It can also protect you from Microsoft Store and third-party sourced apps that are low on reputation and known to cause unexpected behavior.
SmartScreen is also part of Microsoft Edge’s security settings . When enabled, it helps protect your computer against malicious and phishing sites and block downloads.
SmartScreen is enabled by default on all the Windows OS running systems. However, some experienced users may find the feature annoying as it can block safe apps, requiring additional steps to run the setup.
While we recommend you always turn the SmartScreen filter on, you can disable it easily from the Windows Security settings. Here’s how to do it.
1. How to Turn Off SmartScreen Using Windows’ Security Settings
The easiest way to turn off SmartScreen is via the Windows Settings panel. You can configure all the aspects of your system security from the Windows Security panel. Here’s how to do it.
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Open the Privacy and Security tab in the left pane.
- Click on Windows Security.
- Next, click on Open Windows Security.
Power Tools add-on for Google Sheets, 12-month subscription
- Open the App & browser control tab in the left pane.
- Click on Reputation-based protection settings under Reputation-based protection.
- Here, you’ll find four different SmartScreen filters you can individually enable or disable. If you want to turn off the filter for files and executables, turn off Check apps and files and Potentially unwanted app blocking filters. The other two filters are for Microsoft Edge and Microsoft Store apps.
- If you want to turn off SmartScreen completely, disable all four filters.
When you have difficulty accessing the Windows Security window, refer to our troubleshooting guide to fix a blank Windows security screen .
If any of the SmartScreen filters are grayed out with the message “this setting is managed by your administrator,” you must contact your administrator or try another method.
2. How to Disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge has a built-in option to enable and disable Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. Here’s how to access it:
- Launch Microsoft Edge and click the three-dots menu icon in the top right corner.
- Click on Settings.
- Open the Privacy, search, and services tab in the left pane.
- Scroll down to the Security section.
- Toggle the switch for Microsoft Defender SmartScreen to turn it off. This will disable the Block potentially unwanted apps option as well.
- If you choose to enable SmartScreen again, you must manually enable the Block potentially unwanted apps feature.
Additionally, you can disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge using the Windows Security app and Registry Editor. Here’s how to do it.
Disable Microsoft Edge SmartScreen Using Windows Security
Microsoft Edge SmartScreen is for your browsing safety against phishing and malware sites and software you download. Unless an administrator manages it, you can turn it off.
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type windowsdefender:// and click OK to open the Windows Security app.
dotConnect for Oracle is an ADO.NET data provider for Oracle with Entity Framework Support.
- Open the App & browser control tab in the left pane.
- Next, click the Reputation-based protection settings link under Reputation-based protection.
- Toggle the switch for SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge to turn off Microsoft Defender SmartScreen for the Edge browser.
Disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge Using Registry Editor
Editing the registry entry is an alternative (but more complicated) method to disable the SmartScreen for the Edge browser permanently.
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type regedit and click OK to open Registry Editor.
- Next, navigate to the following location:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Edge\SmartScreenEnabled
- In the right pane, right-click on the Default value and select Modify.
- Type 1 in the Value data field and click OK to save the changes.
- You may need to restart your computer to see the changes live.
3. How to Turn Off Windows Defender SmartScreen Using Internet Properties
You can turn on or off Windows Defender SmartScreen using the Internet Properties dialog in Windows 10. Also known as Internet Options, it lets you configure security and access settings, add-ons, Active-X controls, and more.
Follow these steps to turn off SmartScreen using Internet Options:
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type control and click OK to open the Control Panel.
- Click on Network and Internet.
- Next, click on Internet Options.
- In the Internet Properties window, open the Advanced tab.
- Scroll down to the Security section.
- Uncheck the Enable Windows Defender SmartScreen option.
- Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
On a newer version of Windows, including Windows 11, you may not find any option to enable or disable Windows Defender SmartScreen in Internet Properties.
4. How to Enable or Disable SmartScreen Using Registry Editor
You can also turn the Windows Defender SmartScreen on or off using the Registry Editor. Useful if you cannot access it from the Settings app or Internet Properties.
Note that incorrect modification to the registry entries can cause system malfunction. Therefore, create a restore point before proceeding with the steps below.
Press Win + R to open Run.
Type regedit and click OK to open the Registry Editor. Click Yes if prompted by UAC to grant administrative privilege.
In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following location:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\SystemIn the right pane, locate the EnableSmartScreen filter value. You will need to create a new value if no value is found.
To create a new value, right-click on the System key and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Rename the value as EnableSmartScreen.
Next, right-click on the EnableSmartScreen value and select Modify.
Type 0 in the Value data field and click OK to save the changes.
To enable the SmartScreen filter, type 1 in the Value data field and click OK.
Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC to apply the changes.
You can further tweak the registry to create a new String Value to set the blocking level to Warn or Block. Using Warn will show a SmartScreen warning with an option to proceed. In contrast, the Block option will show a warning and block the app from running on your computer.
To set a new ShellSmartScreenLevel String Value in Registry Editor:
- Right-click on the System subkey and select New > String Value. Rename the value as ShellSmartScreenLevel.
- Next, right-click on ShellSmartScreenLevel and select Modify.;
- Type Warn or Block depending on what you want the SmartScreen Level to do. Click OK to save the changes and exit Registry Editor.
5. How to Turn the SmartScreen Filter On or Off Using the Group Policy Editor
If you want to manage the SmartScreen filter for multiple computers at your organization, you can use the Group Policy Editor to do this task.
Note that Group Policy Editor is only available on Windows Pro, Edu, and Enterprise editions of the OS. If you are using Home, explore our guide to enable Group Policy Editor on the Windows Home edition .
To configure the SmartScreen filter using GPEdit:
- Press Win + R to open Run.
- Type gpedit.msc and click OK to open the Group Policy Editor.
- Next, navigate to the following location in Group Policy Editor:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > File Explorer.
- In the right pane, right-click on Configure Windows Defender SmartScreen policy and select Edit.
OtsAV DJ Pro
- To disable SmartScreen, select Disabled.
- If you want to enable SmartScreen, select Not Configured or Enabled.
- Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
- Close Group Policy Editor and restart your PC.
Manage the SmartScreen Filter in Windows
While you can easily disable the SmartScreen filter in Windows, it is an extremely useful security tool. It can protect you against malicious files and programs and screen and block suspicious sites. It’s an added layer of protection to Windows Defender and helps keep your PC safe. Make sure to enable the SmartScreen filter once the task is finished.
Also read:
- [New] Mastering Podcast Release Schedules for 2024
- [Updated] Crafting Wisdom for the Virtual Realm 30+ Metaverse Quotes
- [Updated] In 2024, Streamline Your Sound Game Expert Guide for Using VoiceMod in Discord
- [Updated] The Path to Prominence Secure 1,000 IG Allies/Month for 2024
- 2024 Approved Chuckle-O-Meter Starts with Zero – MemeMasters Kit
- 2024 Approved The Future Shaped by Quantum HDR Tech
- 7 Strategies to Rectify Chrome's Profile Problems on Desktop
- 即時買い取り:ステラ修理機能のフォトアクセサリー
- Addressing Inoperative Touchscreen Actions in Windows
- Addressing Unsuccessful Image Saving on Win11 PC
- Budget-Friendly Roku Reviews: Expansive Content at Wallet-Friendly Prices
- Clarifying Computer Storage: C, D Distinctions
- Comprehensive Solution for GeForce Now Error: Xc0f1103f on Windows 11
- Craft a Quick Fix to Skip Windows Login Dialogs
- Crafting a Flawlessly New Windows Experience in 11Th Gen
- Dealing with the ISDone.dll Error in Windows 11 & 11X
- Digital Downpour: All Social Apps MIA Today
- Discover Cutting-Edge Tech Trends at Tom's Electronics Insight
- Elevate Your File Handling in Win 11 by Adding Move/Copy Menus
- Eradicating Error X70 on Windows: File and Folder Restoration Guide
- Essential Polarr Tips for Pro-Level Photography Editing
- Essential Steps for Preventing Heat in W11 Systems
- How To Remove Screen Lock PIN On Oppo K11x Like A Pro 5 Easy Ways
- Improving Performance: Managing Memory Usage for Connected Services
- In 2024, The Ultimate Guide to Vivo Y28 5G Pattern Lock Screen Everything You Need to Know
- In 2024, Upgrade Your Photo Edits The Ultimate Guide to Pixlr Power
- Initiating MS Paint Within Windows 11
- Mastering the Art of Rectifying Bluetooth PIN-Related Disconnects
- Mastery of AMD Graphics Driver Updates in the Windows Ecosystem
- Methods to End Persistent Login Error Alerts on PC
- New In 2024, Top VSDC Video Editor Replacements for Mac Users
- Overcoming the Absence of Battery Life Duration in PCs Running Win 11
- Overcoming Windows 11'S Unidentified USB Port Problems
- Stop Recurring File Explorer Autoload
- The Essentiality of Runtime Brokers for Modern OS Functionality
- The Ultimate Technique: How to Execute a Clean Boot on Windows 11
- Toolbox Tutorial: Windows' Core Components Management
- Top Reasons to Steer Clear of ChatGPT Applications in the Apple Macintosh Application Catalog
- Troubleshooting Windows: Voice & Music From Bluetooth Headset
- Understanding and Remedying Install Fail in Win's Discord Setup
- Unveiling WindowsStore Directory Secrets for Users
- Windowed Wonders: Enhance Windows 11 Explorer Visibility
- Title: Activating/Deactivating Windows 11'S Anti-Phishing Filter
- Author: David
- Created at : 2024-08-15 23:20:32
- Updated at : 2024-08-16 23:20:32
- Link: https://win11.techidaily.com/activatingdeactivating-windows-11s-anti-phishing-filter/
- License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.