How to Turn On Smart App Control in Windows 11
Smart App Control in Windows 11 protects your PC by stopping unwanted or harmful applications from running. This security tool checks applications against Microsoft's safety data to confirm application safety before allowing applications to start.
If an app seems risky or doesn’t have proper digital verification, Smart App Control blocks it. This prevents malware and other bad software from getting onto your computer.
Previously, turning on Smart App Control meant reinstalling Windows 11, which was complicated. Now, with updates like the April 2026 Security Update for version 25H2, you can easily switch it on or off without a full reinstallation.
Open Windows Security, navigate to App & browser control, then Smart App Control settings, and toggle the switch to ‘On’. If it’s in Evaluation mode, it’s already active and learning.
How to Turn On Smart App Control
Turning on Smart App Control in Windows 11 adds an extra layer of security by blocking untrusted apps.
Step 1Open Windows Security
First, open the Windows Security app. You can do this in a couple of ways. Click the Start button. Then, type “Windows Security” in the search box. Click on the Windows Security app when it appears.
- You can also open the Settings app (press
Windows key + I). Then go to Privacy & security. Under the “Security” section, find and click on Windows Security.
Step 2Go to App & Browser Control
Once Windows Security is open, look at the menu on the left side. Locate and click on “App & browser control.” This section might have an icon that looks like an app window or a shield.
Clicking this reveals the settings for app and web browsing security.
Step 3Find Smart App Control Settings
Within the App & browser control section, you’ll find different security options. Look for the one labeled “Smart App Control settings.” Click on it to access the controls for this feature.
The Smart App Control toggle is the primary option within Windows 11 settings for managing application safety. Users should look for this main switch to turn the feature on or off.
Step 4Turn Smart App Control ‘On’
Smart App Control offers an option to turn protection on or off. Selecting "On" enables this protection. If Smart App Control initially shows in "Evaluation mode," the feature is active and learning about the computer's apps.
After selecting “On,” Windows will confirm that Smart App Control is active. It will then begin monitoring and blocking any apps that are not safe or trustworthy from running.
Summary
Smart App Control is a security feature in Windows 11 that helps block untrusted apps from running.
Was this guide helpful?
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.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!