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6 Ways to Fix Windows Defender Service Access Denied Error
In most cases, you may need to switch antivisus apps
6 min. read
Updated onJanuary 30, 2024
updated onJanuary 30, 2024
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Did you encounter a Windows Defender service access denied error? Here is all you should know.
Windows Defender is one of the most popular antivirus programs, protecting millions of computers against vicious threads. However, many users report that their Windows Defender cannot be started.
Often, when users try to start Microsoft’s built-in antivirus, an error message appears on the screen informing them that the service couldn’t be started. There are a few ways to fix this.
Why can’t the Windows Defender service be started?
Many Windows 10 users reported that the Windows Defender service wouldn’t start on their PCs. Here are a few reasons why this may happen:
Moreover, here are some other similar issues that users reported:
How can I fix the Windows Defender service not found/access denied errors?
1. Disable and remove third-party antivirus solutions
Running two antivirus solutions at the same time causes various technical issues. Use dedicated software removal tools to eradicate any third-party antivirus files.
For example, IObit Uninstaller is an excellent choice. This tool can remove all unwanted programs with their associated files, leaving no trace behind, as IObit will scan and display logged programs, folders, registries, etc, to delete them with just a right-click.
IObit Uninstaller
2. Install the latest Windows Updates
Windows will now check for available updates and download them in the background. Once the updates are downloaded, restart your PC to install them.
3. Run an SFC or DISM scan
3.1 SFC Scan
According to users, sometimes Windows Defender service won’t start because of file corruption. Your system files can get corrupted, and that can cause this error to appear.
Once the scan is finished, check if the problem persists. If the issue is still present, or if you couldn’t run an SFC scan, you might want to try running a DISM scan instead.
3.2 DISM scan
Once the DISM scan is finished, check if the problem persists. If the problem is still there or you couldn’t run the DISM scan before, repeat the SFC scan and check if that solves the problem.
4. Clean your registry
Sometimes,Windows Defender cannot be startedif there are issues with your registry. For example, a corrupted registry entry can cause this issue to appear, and you need to find and remove the problematic access.
This is a complex task to perform manually, so it’s better to use special software. There are many great registry cleaners available that can help you with that problem.
To find the proper choice for this task, you can opt forefficient registry cleaner toolsthat eliminate residual files and optimize your PC.
5. Create a new user account
After creating a new user account, switch to it and check if the problem is still present. If not, you might have to change to the newly created account and start using it instead of your old one.
6. Perform an in-place upgrade
Once the installation is finished, you’ll have a fresh installation of Windows, and the problem should be resolved.
Not being able to start the Windows Defender service can be a problem, but we hope you managed to fix this issue with one of our solutions.
You might be also interested in our guide onwhat is MsSense.exe and how to fix its errorsbecause it’s the executable of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.
Before you leave, you can also check our guide on what to do if youcan’t access the Windows Defender Scans folder.
Note that we have not made these solutions in any particular order, so you should try what seems the most appropriate.
More about the topics:Windows Defender issues
Madalina Dinita
Networking & Security Specialist
Madalina has been a Windows fan ever since she got her hands on her first Windows XP computer.
She is interested in all things technology, especially emerging technologies – AI and DNA computing in particular.
Prior to joining the WindowsReport team, she worked in the corporate world for a number of years.
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Madalina Dinita
Networking & Security Specialist
Madalina is a Windows fan since forever, especially interested in AI, emerging technologies, privacy, and security.
