How to reset the Windows Security app to fix problems on Windows 11 and 10
If the Windows Security app isn’t working correctly, in this guide, I’ll explain what you can do to fix it.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
OnWindows 11(or 10), the Windows Security app provides a central dashboard to manage and configure many security features available with the operating system, such as Microsoft Defender Antivirus, Device Security, and Firewall.
If the app doesn’t start correctly, constantly crashes, or shows an error, you can reset it to resolve most issues through the Settings app and PowerShell. However, the instructions will be slightly different depending on whether you have a Windows 10 or 11 computer.
In thishow-to guide, I will walk you through the steps to repair problems affecting the Windows Security app on your computer.
How to reset the Windows Security app on Windows 11
On Windows 11, you can use the Settings app and PowerShell to fix problems with the Windows Security app.
From Settings app
To fix problems with the Security app on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you should be able to relaunch the app without issues.
From PowerShell
To reset the Security app with PowerShell on Windows 11, use these steps:
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
After you complete the steps, the PowerShell command will reset the app to resolve any issue.
In the command, I’m using the"Get-AppxPackage"to grab the app, and the"Reset-AppxPackage"instructs the system to reset the application.
How to reset the Windows Security app on Windows 10
On Windows 10, you can also use the Settings app and PowerShell, but the instructions will be slightly different.
From Settings app
To repair the Security app on Windows 10, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the reset process should fix the most common problems with the Windows Security app.
From PowerShell
To reset the Security app on Windows 10 through PowerShell, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the PowerShell command will reset the app to resolve any issue.
Although Windows 10 doesn’t include the"Reset-AppxPackage"option, you can use the"Add-AppxPackage"option to register the Windows Security app.
More resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
Mauro Huculak has been a Windows How-To Expert contributor for WindowsCentral.com for nearly a decade and has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides. He also has an IT background and has achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA. He has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years.
