How to Enable Smart App Control in Windows 11

This post shows students and new users steps to turn Smart App Control on or off in Windows 11. In addition, windows come with a free and robust antivirus program called Microsoft Defender Antivirus that helps protect one’s computer from threats and online malware.

Smart App Control is a new feature rolled out to PCs enrolled in the Microsoft Insider Program that protects users from malware and new and emerging threats, including blocking malicious or untrusted apps.

This protection is built into Windows and works with Microsoft Defender Endpoint to provide additional protection on your device and in the cloud. Additionally, protection such as Controlled folder access, Real-time protection, Tamper protection, and Ransomware protection is included with Microsoft Security.

When you turn on Smart App Control, it starts in evaluation mode. In addition, Windows determines if your computer is ready and a good candidate for Smart App Control. Smart App Control will automatically turn on if your PC is ready and meets all the requirements. If not, it’ll be turned off.

How to enable or disable Smart App Control in Windows 11

As mentioned above, Smart App Control protects users from malware and new and emerging threats, including blocking malicious or untrusted apps.

The Smart App Control settings are in the Windows Security app’s App & browser control panel.

Below is how to turn on or off Smart App Control in Windows 11.

Turn On or Off Smart App Control:

In the search box on the taskbar, type Windows Security and select Windows Security in the results list.

Select the App & browser control tile in Windows Security, as highlighted in the image below.

On the App & browser control page, click on the Smart App Control settings link to open it.

Then, change the Periodic scanning setting to On or Off.

Smart App Control is only available on clean installs of Windows 11.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

• Smart App Control is a crucial feature included in Windows 11 to protect users from malware and new and emerging threats, including blocking malicious or untrusted apps.
• Users can easily enable or disable Smart App Control by accessing the App & browser control settings within the Windows Security app.
• Turning on Smart App Control starts in evaluation mode to determine if the computer is ready and meets all the requirements. If not, it will be turned off.
• It’s important to note that Smart App Control is only available on clean installs of Windows 11, offering an additional layer of security to devices.