Sometimes, when you try to turn on Windows Defender, it remains turned off and displays the following message: This program is blocked by group policy. For more information contact your system administrator. (Error Code: 0x800704ec) With this error message, you won’t be able to turn on Windows Defender. This is not really a problem as the software and the operating system have
been intentionally designed in this manner. The reason for this is that an antivirus software is currently installed and active on the computer and in order to avoid conflicting software operations, an antivirus software automatically disables Windows Defender. The following methods provide steps on how to resolve this issue. Method 1: Basic Uninstall SolutionThis problem can be solved by simply uninstalling any antivirus programs or software from the computer thereby making Windows Defender active as the only protection software of the system. In order to do this, follow the steps below.
If the above steps did not help in uninstalling the antivirus/spywares or other security programs, then follow this guide remove anti virus Now your Windows Defender should be enabled and running. If it isn’t, make sure it’s turned on. To make sure it’s on, do the following
If the above steps do not resolve the problem, kindly use method 2 below to instantly fix the issue. Method 2: Advanced Registry-edit SolutionIn very few occasions, method 1 may fail to resolve the problem and this method provides an instant fix by modifying the registry key to remedy the situation. Some users may find this step more complicated but the steps below have been broken down to make the process as easy as possible.
If the above given steps doesn’t solve the problem then try this
Method 3: Local Group PolicySometimes there might not be a problem with the Windows Defender and system itself but your Windows Defender might just be turned off from the Local Group Policy. You can easily check and change the settings (if it is disabled) from Local Group Policy window.
Now turn on Windows Defender and check if it gives the same error or not. Method 4: Enable Windows DefenderIf you don’t have other antiviruses installed on your computer and you can’t turn on Windows Defender then it might be disabled. To enable Windows Defender follow the steps given below.
Kevin is a dynamic and self-motivated information technology professional, with a Thorough knowledge of all facets pertaining to network infrastructure design, implementation and administration. Superior record of delivering simultaneous large-scale mission critical projects on time and under budget. How do I unblock Windows Defender from group policy?Turn on Windows Defender from the Settings app
Select Windows Security from the menu on the left and in the right pane click Open Windows Security. Now select Virus & threat protection. Navigate to Virus & threat protection settings and click on Manage settings. Now locate Real-time protection and enable it.
How do I turn on Windows Defender with group policy?Complete the following steps to make them visible.. Select the Start menu.. In the search bar, type group policy. ... . Select Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Security > Virus and threat protection.. Select Hide the Virus and threat protection area.. Select Disabled > Apply > OK.. How do I fix this program is blocked by group policy Windows 7?How to Fix “This Program Is Blocked by Group Policy” Error. Step 1: Press the Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog. ... . Step 2: Expand User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System. ... . Step 3: Then click the Show button.. Step 4: Remove the target program or application from the disallowed list and click OK.. |