SOLVED: “Windows Defender SmartScreen Prevented an Unrecognized App from Starting”

Windows Defender SmartScreen is a security feature that protects your PC from potentially harmful applications. However, sometimes it mistakenly blocks legitimate apps, displaying the warning: “Windows Defender SmartScreen prevented an unrecognized app from starting.” If you face this issue, we will help you bypass it safely without compromising your system security.

Windows Defender SmartScreen Overview

Windows Defender SmartScreen is a built-in security feature in Windows 10 that protects you from online threats like phishing and malware. I rely on it because it uses reputation-based filtering to assess websites, downloads, and apps in real-time, alerting me to potentially dangerous content. This tool actively blocks malicious sites and drive-by attacks by analyzing URLs and files before they harm my system. 

Its seamless integration with the Windows operating system means enhanced cybersecurity without extra effort on my part. In short, Windows Defender SmartScreen is an essential tool for ensuring safer browsing and a more secure digital experience.

Why Does Windows Defender SmartScreen Show This Warning?

Windows Defender SmartScreen issues this warning when:

• The app is from an unknown or untrusted publisher.
• The app lacks a digital signature.
• The software is newly released and hasn’t been widely used.
• Windows cannot verify the app’s safety due to a missing reputation score.

How to Bypass Windows Defender SmartScreen Warning

If you’re sure the app is safe, you can bypass the SmartScreen warning using the following methods:

1. Run the App Anyway

Steps:

1. When you see the SmartScreen warning, click More info.
2. Select Run anyway to launch the app.

This method is best when dealing with well-known and trusted software.

2. Disable Windows Defender SmartScreen Temporarily

Steps:

1. Open Settings (Press Win + I).
2. Navigate to Privacy & Security > Windows Security.
3. Click App & browser control.
4. Under Reputation-based protection, click Reputation-based protection settings.
5. Toggle Check apps and files to Off.

Note: Keep this setting enabled for everyday security; only turn it off temporarily if necessary.

3. Unblock the File via Properties

Steps:

1. Right-click the blocked File and select Properties.
2. In the General tab, check Unblock under Security.
3. Click Apply and then OK.
4. Try rerunning the File.

This removes the restriction placed by Windows Defender SmartScreen.

4. Add an Exception in Windows Defender

If SmartScreen continues to block a trusted app, adding it to Windows Defender exclusions can help.

Steps:

1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
2. Go to Virus & Threat Protection> Manage settings.
3. Scroll to Exclusions and click Add or Remove Exclusions.
4. Select Add an Exclusion and choose File.
5. Could you navigate to the blocked app and add it?

Preventing Future SmartScreen Warnings

If you frequently encounter SmartScreen blocks on trusted apps, consider the following:

1. Keep Windows and Apps Updated

Outdated software may lack proper digital signatures, triggering SmartScreen warnings. Constantly update Windows and applications from official sources.

Here’s how to check if Windows is up to date:

1. Open Settings – Press Win + I.
2. Go to Windows Update – Click Update & Security (Windows 10) or Windows Update (Windows 11).
3. Check for Updates – Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
4. Restart if Needed – If prompted, restart your PC to complete the update.

2. Install a Reliable PC Repair Tool

Windows Defender SmartScreen is an enhanced security feature for Windows 10 and 11 that prevents your system from known threats. However, as the internet evolves, cyber-attacks are becoming so sophisticated and modern that known security software is not enough for these modern threats. You need a more advanced and robust antivirus with real-time malware protection, such as Fortect.

An advanced repair tool like Fortect can help prevent issues with unrecognized apps. Fortect:

• Automatically detects and fixes corrupted system files.
• Ensures your system remains stable and optimized.
• It provides real-time malware protection and safeguards against threats.

Download and install Fortect to keep your Windows system running smoothly and securely.

3. Verify Software Sources

Always download software from trusted websites and developers. Avoid using cracked or pirated programs, as they may contain malware.

4. Check Digital Signatures

Before installing an app, check if it’s digitally signed by a trusted publisher:

• Right-click the app and select Properties.
• Go to the Digital Signatures tab.
• Verify the publisher information.

Benefits of Microsoft Defender SmartScreen

Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is an early warning system against phishing sites and malware attacks. I value it for its layered protection—it not only shields me from deceptive ads, scam sites, and drive-by attacks but also evaluates the reputation of URLs and apps. If a site or file doesn’t have a solid track record, I receive a timely alert. Integrated directly into Windows 10, it monitors downloads across built-in and third-party applications, ensuring continuous security. 

Its ever-improving heuristics and diagnostic capabilities keep it current against emerging threats. The ability to manage settings via group policy or Microsoft Intune further enhances its utility, and Microsoft Edge even blocks URLs linked to potentially unwanted applications.

Final Thoughts

Windows Defender SmartScreen is an essential security feature but can sometimes block legitimate apps. Following the steps in this guide, you can safely bypass these warnings while protecting your PC. Remember to re-enable security settings after running your trusted application to maintain overall system security.