How to Block Potentially Unwanted Applications in Microsoft Defender Antivirus on Windows 10

In Windows 10, Microsoft Defender Antivirus offers robust protection against viruses, ransomware, spyware, and other forms of malware. Starting with the May 2020 Update (version 2004), Windows Security introduced a feature to protect your system against potentially unwanted applications (PUAs). PUAs are low-reputation apps that may cause unexpected behaviors on Windows 10, such as poorly designed apps or apps intended to cause harm.

Introduction

The PUA blocking feature in Windows Security helps detect and block low-reputation apps, ensuring your device remains secure. This guide will show you how to enable or disable the protection against potentially unwanted apps using the Windows Security app on Windows 10.

Steps to Block Potentially Unwanted Applications

Step 01: Open Windows Security

Press Windows key + S, type “Windows Security” in the search box, and press Enter.

Step 02: Access App & Browser Control

In the Windows Security window, click on “App & browser control.”

Step 03: Open Reputation-Based Protection Settings

Click the “Reputation-based protection settings” option under the App & browser control section.

Step 04: Enable PUA Blocking

Under the “Potentially unwanted app blocking” section, turn on the toggle switch to enable PUA blocking.

Conclusion

Once you complete these steps, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will monitor and block apps with a bad reputation and those that might cause unexpected behaviors, such as poorly coded apps, adware, cryptocurrency miners, and more. To disable potentially unwanted apps blocking, simply turn off the toggle switch.

Additional Information

• Reputation-Based Protection: This feature works alongside other reputation-based protection measures in Windows Security, enhancing your device’s overall security.
• Notification: When PUA blocking is enabled, you’ll receive notifications when a potentially unwanted app is detected and blocked, providing you with insights into the security actions taken.

By following these steps, you can leverage Microsoft Defender Antivirus to prevent potentially unwanted applications from causing issues on your Windows 10 device, ensuring a safer and more reliable computing experience.