To turn off SmartScreen in Windows 10, open Windows Security, select App & browser control > Reputation-based protection settings, and turn off Check apps and files. If SmartScreen blocked just one app you trust, you don’t need to turn it off: select More info > Run anyway on the warning instead.
Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 28, 2026.
Run one blocked app (recommended)
When SmartScreen shows “Windows protected your PC,” it means the app is new or not well known. It doesn’t always mean the app is harmful.
- Make sure the file came from the official website of the app’s maker.
- On the warning, select More info.
- Check the App name and Publisher, then select Run anyway.
If the publisher is unknown and you aren’t sure about the file, select Don’t run and delete it. See how to scan for and remove malware in Windows 10.
Unblock one downloaded file
Files from the internet carry a hidden “downloaded” mark that triggers the warning. To remove it for a single file you trust, right-click the file, select Properties, tick Unblock at the bottom of the General tab, and select OK. SmartScreen stays on for everything else.
Turn SmartScreen off
- Select Start, type Windows Security, and open it.
- Select App & browser control.
- Under Reputation-based protection, select Reputation-based protection settings.
- Turn off Check apps and files. Select Yes if Windows asks for permission.
- To stop SmartScreen in Edge too, turn off SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge.
Turn these back on when you’re done. SmartScreen helps stop harmful downloads and fake websites.
What each SmartScreen setting does
- Check apps and files warns about unknown programs you try to run.
- SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge blocks known phishing and malware sites, and warns about risky downloads in Edge.
- Potentially unwanted app blocking stops adware and toolbars that come bundled with downloads.
- SmartScreen for Microsoft Store apps checks the web addresses that Store apps use.
You can turn off just the one that’s getting in the way and leave the rest on.
Troubleshooting
- There’s no Run anyway button. The file may be known to be harmful, or your organization blocks it. Don’t try to get around it; delete the file.
- The settings are greyed out with “managed by your administrator”. A policy controls SmartScreen. On a work PC, ask IT. On a home PC, unexpected policies can be a sign of unwanted software, so run a full scan.
- Edge says the file “isn’t commonly downloaded”. Select the three dots next to the download, choose Keep, then Show more > Keep anyway, only if you trust the source.
Frequently asked questions
Is SmartScreen the same as the antivirus?
No. SmartScreen checks whether apps, files and websites are known and safe. Microsoft Defender Antivirus scans for malware. See how to turn Windows Defender on or off in Windows 10.
Why can’t I change these settings?
Your organization may manage them, or you may need an administrator account. On a work or school PC, ask your IT team.
What if Windows still won’t let me install an app?
See how to install apps and software in Windows 10 for other settings that can block installs.
Microsoft’s reference is App & browser control in the Windows Security app. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.
Does SmartScreen send my files to Microsoft?
It sends information about the file or web address, such as a fingerprint of the file and where it came from, to check its reputation. It doesn’t upload your documents.
Is it safe to leave SmartScreen off?
It’s riskier. SmartScreen stops many fake download sites and phishing pages that antivirus alone may miss. Turn it back on as soon as you’ve installed what you needed.
Why does SmartScreen warn about apps I’ve used for years?
A new version may not have built up a reputation yet, or the developer changed its signing certificate. If you downloaded it from the official site, it’s usually fine to run.
Does Windows 11 have the same setting?
Yes. It’s in Windows Security under App & browser control, with the same switches.
Related: turn off SmartScreen on Windows 11.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.