Share this article
Improve this guide
FIX: Windows Defender security center has a red X [Solved]
4 min. read
Updated onApril 3, 2024
updated onApril 3, 2024
Share this article
Improve this guide
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more
Key notes
Following the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, many users have reported that after doing a full scan, theWindows Defendershield changes.
Theantivirusswitches from all-white to a red circle containing a white X overlaying the lower right quadrant of the shield. The next question is: what does this newiconmean?
For the time being, no one can answer this question, the red circle with the white X overlay is as mysterious as the Bermuda triangle. The good news is thatWindows Defenderappears to be up and running.
All the status indicators are normal: theantivirusindicates the PC is being monitored and protected, real-time protection is on, and the virus and spyware definitions are up to date.
Quick Tip:
WhileWindows Defenderis great antivirus software, completely integrated into Windows, it is not the best one there is. There are better options on the market.
We suggest installing a third-party security tool that specializes in protecting your system from the newest harmfulsoftware, phishing attacks, and data theft.
ESET HOME Security Essential
The Windows Defender shield overlay puzzles users
One user stated the following:
After the Windows 10 Anniversary update and after doing a full scan, the Windows Defender shield switches from all white to the following image (a red circle containing a white X overlaying the lower right quadrant of the shield.) What does it mean?
All the Insiders who joined the conversation on a forum thread have confirmed they have never seen this overlay before.
Some even said the overlay is certainly an interesting anomaly. However, we wouldn’t haste to say that, taking into account thatWindows Defenderappears to be running normally.
Perhaps, thisWindows Defenderfirewall red x is a new part of the overlay that Microsoft forgot to introduce.
How do I get rid of the Windows Defender overlay problem?
1. Restart Windows Defender
If this strangeWindows Defendershield overlay really annoys you, simply turn off the antivirus and then turn it back on. According to users’ reports, this simple action makes the mysterious overlay disappear.
I also had this issue. Here was my solution. Click on the Windows Defender icon in the system tray. Click on the gear (settings) icon. Click on Window Defender. It may appear here to be “On”. Turn it “Off” and turn it “On” again. Worked for me. Good luck all!
2. Run a System Scan
Running a System Scan will solve most system problems, and seeing as theWindows Defenderis integrated into the system, it should solvetheWindows Defendershield red crossproblem.
3. Run a DISM scan
4. Restart your device
This might be just a visual bug, due to some conflictingsoftware. If yourWindows Defenderis actually running fine even if theiconis different, you should be safe.
Restarting your device might solve this issue, although it’s not guaranteed. Most likely, this is a problem from Microsoft’s end and it will fix itself in time.
This concludes our article. We gave you an overview of this strange behaviour fromWindows Defender.
Have a look at thisthorough list of the best antivirus software with a lifetime licenseand choose one to protect you from any dangerous software.
If you know what thisWindows Defendericonoverlay means, you can tell us more about it in the comment section below.
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.
User forum
0 messages
Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes
Comment*
Name*
Email*
Commenting as.Not you?
Save information for future comments
Comment
Δ
Madalina Dinita
Networking & Security Specialist
Madalina is a Windows fan since forever, especially interested in AI, emerging technologies, privacy, and security.
