How to Enable or Disable Smart App Control in Windows 11
This guide explains how to enable or disable Smart App Control in Windows 11.
Open Windows Security, select App & browser control, then click Smart App Control settings. Choose On or Off to enable or disable the feature. Note that on older Windows 11 versions, turning it off requires a reset or reinstall to turn back on.
What is Smart App Control?
Smart App Control in Windows 11 is a security tool that helps keep your computer safe by blocking apps that could be harmful or suspicious.
It blocks apps that might harm your computer, slow it down, show unwanted ads, or install extra software you don’t want.
How Does Smart App Control Work?
Smart App Control in Windows 11 begins in a testing mode, also known as evaluation mode, to check if your PC can run it without issues. After this evaluation, if your PC is deemed compatible, Smart App Control will automatically activate; otherwise, it remains off. You always have the option to manually enable or disable Smart App Control yourself.
Automatic On/Off: Following the evaluation, SAC will activate automatically if your PC is deemed a good fit; otherwise, it stays off.
Manual Control: You have the option to switch SAC on or off yourself. Keep in mind that once you’ve made this selection, returning to the evaluation period requires resetting or reinstalling Windows.
Important Things to Know
Smart App Control in Windows 11 works best on new PC setups. If you turn off Smart App Control, it becomes very hard to turn Smart App Control back on. In most cases, you will need to completely reset or reinstall Windows 11 to get Smart App Control working again.
If you disable Smart App Control (SAC) in Windows 11, you’ll need to fully reset or reinstall Windows to re-enable it. This means that after SAC is turned off, simply using the settings won’t bring it back; a more involved system restoration is required.
You cannot grant exceptions for specific blocked apps. If an app is blocked, you would need to request that the app developer digitally sign their application.
Several things might cause SAC to be off:
- Your PC was found not suitable during evaluation.
- SAC was turned off by you or someone else.
- Your PC is running Windows in S mode (which restricts apps).
- Optional diagnostic data is turned off on your PC.
For now, SAC is mostly recommended for users in North America and Europe.
How to Turn Smart App Control On or Off Using Windows Security
You can turn Smart App Control on or off in Windows 11 using the Windows Security app. Open Windows Security, then select ‘App & browser control’ on the left side. On the right, click the ‘Smart App Control settings’ link, and then choose ‘On’ to enable it or ‘Off’ to disable it.
Click App & browser control on the left side. Then click the Smart App Control settings link on the right.
Choose On to turn it on or Off to turn it off.
How to Turn Smart App Control On or Off Using Registry (Advanced Users)
A word of caution: Modifying the registry improperly can lead to serious system issues. It’s important to follow these steps exactly or seek assistance if you’re unsure.
⚠️ ADMIN PRIVILEGES REQUIRED
Open Windows Terminal as administrator and run one of these commands by saving the text below as a .reg file and running it:
Turn On Smart App Control
Smart App Control in Windows 11 adds security by blocking malicious apps. This feature runs a readiness check before activation, and you can manually turn Smart App Control on or off. However, reactivating Smart App Control typically requires a Windows reset, and it functions best on new installations.
More Info and Help
App & browser control in Windows Security – Microsoft Support
Discover Smart App Control | Microsoft Windows
Application Control for Windows – Microsoft Docs
Smart App Control FAQ – Microsoft Support
What version of 🪟 Windows 11 is smart app control?
Notably, Smart App Control is enabled by default — but only on “clean installs” of Windows 11 version 22H2 or later. Systems upgraded from older versions of Windows 11 will always show SAC in the “Off” state.
What is the smart app control on my laptop?
Smart App Control (SAC) is a Windows 11 security feature that blocks malicious, untrusted, or potentially unwanted apps to enhance device protection. It prevents users from launching risky files, even when they are manually launched. Users can manage SAC through the Windows Security app or by creating REG files.
Does 🪟 Windows 11 Home have smart app control?
Smart App Control can be used on new Windows 11 installs only. If you received it as part of a Windows update on an already running device, you won't be able to turn it on unless you reset your PC or re-install Windows.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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