How to Enable or Disable SmartScreen for Microsoft Store Apps on Windows 11

This guide shows you how to manage the Microsoft Defender SmartScreen feature for apps from the Microsoft Store on Windows 11.

Why do this? SmartScreen acts as a safety guard. It checks the apps you download to make sure they are safe. Turning it on helps keep your computer free from viruses and malware.

What happens when done? If you turn it on, your computer will warn you before you open or download anything suspicious. If you turn it off, you will not get these warnings, which makes your computer less secure.

By default, Microsoft Defender SmartScreen warns you about dangerous sites and downloads used by Microsoft Store apps. Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is built into your system to protect you from unrecognized files from the Microsoft Store. It works alongside other tools like phishing protection to keep your device safe.

How to manage SmartScreen for Microsoft Store apps

Note: You must have administrator privileges to change these security settings.

1. In the search box on your taskbar, type Windows Security and click on Windows Security.

2. Click on the App & browser control tile.

3. On the next page, look for Reputation-based protection and click the Reputation-based protection settings link.

4. Find the section labeled SmartScreen for Microsoft Store apps. Toggle the switch to On or Off based on your preference.

You can close the window once you are finished.

Summary

Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is a security tool for Microsoft Store apps. It scans for dangerous files and websites to protect your computer. You can easily turn this feature on or off inside the Windows Security app. Keeping it on is highly recommended to prevent malicious software from harming your system.