How to Clear Windows Security History in Windows 11
Clearing Windows Security history in Windows 11 deletes past threat records and warning messages from Microsoft Defender Antivirus (the built-in Windows malware protection tool). This security log stores details about blocked viruses and items found on your PC over the past 15 days.
Old alerts often stay stuck in your dashboard even after you fix the problems. Deleting them gives you a clean slate and makes it easier to spot new threats.
Disable Tamper Protection in Windows Security, then delete the Service folder located at 📁C:\
Prerequisites: Tamper Protection
Tamper Protection (a security setting that blocks apps from changing your security settings) must be turned off before you can clear Windows Security history. Windows blocks you from deleting past scan records while this feature is active. Open the Windows Security app, go to Virus & threat protection, click Manage settings, and toggle Tamper Protection to Off.
- Open the Windows Security app.
- Go to Virus & threat protection.
- Click Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings.
- Toggle Tamper Protection to Off.
Method 1Manual File Path Deletion
Deleting scan logs directly through File Explorer is the most direct way to clear Windows Security history. You can wipe out all past threat records by removing the Service folder from the Windows Defender directory. Open File Explorer , paste 📁C:\
- Open File Explorer by pressing Win+E.
- Copy and paste this path into the address bar:
C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Scans\History - Locate the Service folder.
- Right-click the Service folder and select Delete.
- Restart your computer to finish the process.
Method 2PowerShell Automation
PowerShell lets you clear Windows Security history quickly using a single administrative command instead of digging through File Explorer folders. This method automates the deletion of past scan logs for users who prefer using the command line. Right-click the Start button , open Terminal as an administrator, and run the command to wipe your history clean.
- Right-click the Start button and select Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
- Copy and paste the following command:
Remove-Item -Path "C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Scans\History\Service\*" -Recurse -Force - Press Enter.
Summary
Clearing your Windows Security history involves a few steps. First, turn off Tamper Protection. Then, delete the files in the Service folder using either File Explorer or a PowerShell command. This provides a fresh look at your security dashboard without compromising your PC’s safety.
Was this guide helpful?
About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard is a writer at Geek Rewind who turns complex IT tasks into clear, step-by-step guides. He draws on years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, focusing on Windows, Linux and WordPress: the problems people actually run into, and the fixes that work. His server and WordPress guides come from systems he runs himself. Richard builds and maintains the platform behind Geek Rewind, from its Ubuntu servers and Nginx configuration to its custom WordPress plugins. Many new tutorials start with readers' questions, and he's always glad to answer them in the comments.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!