Method 1: Enable Windows Defender Using the Security Center
One of the simplest ways to enable Windows Defender is by using the Security Center. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard to open the Quick Link menu.
Step 2: Click on the “Control Panel” option.
Step 3: In the Control Panel window, click on the “Security and Maintenance” option.
Step 4: Under the “Security” category, you will find the “Windows Defender” option. If it is disabled, you will see a red cross and a notification that your computer may not be protected.
Step 5: Click on the “Turn on now” button to enable Windows Defender.
Method 2: Enable Windows Defender Using Group Policy
If you are using the Windows Pro, Enterprise, or Education edition, you can enable Windows Defender using Group Policy. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
Step 2: In the Run dialog box, type “gpedit.msc” and press Enter.
Step 3: In the Local Group Policy Editor window, navigate to the following location: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Defender Antivirus.
Step 4: In the right-hand pane, double-click on the “Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus” policy.
Step 5: Select the “Disabled” option and click on the “OK” button.
Step 6: Close the Local Group Policy Editor window and restart your computer. Windows Defender should now be enabled.
Method 3: Enable Windows Defender Using the Registry Editor
The Registry Editor can be used to enable Windows Defender if it is disabled due to a malware infection. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
Step 2: In the Run dialog box, type “regedit” and press Enter.
Step 3: In the Registry Editor window, navigate to the following location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender.
Step 4: In the right-hand pane, double-click on the “DisableAntiSpyware” value.
Step 5: Change the value data from “1” to “0” and click on the “OK” button.
Step 6: Close the Registry Editor window and restart your computer. Windows Defender should now be enabled.
Conclusion
Enabling Windows Defender is a simple process that can be completed using various methods. Whether you prefer using the Security Center, Group Policy, or the Registry Editor, the important thing is to ensure that your computer is protected from malware threats. Windows Defender may not be the most advanced antivirus software out there, but it provides basic protection that can be useful in preventing common malware infections.