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FIX: An Unexpected Problem Occurred in Windows Defender
We have solutions that worked for everyone
5 min. read
Updated onApril 3, 2024
updated onApril 3, 2024
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Key notes
More and more Windows Defender users are reporting they can’t turn onMicrosoft’s built-in antivirusprogram due to various errors, the most common being theUnexpected error. Sorry, we ran into a problem. Please try again
The error could be due to several reasons, and the long list of solutions can confuse many. But there are a few tried and tested ones that seem to work for most users, and we will be exploring these today.
Before we proceed, here are a few similar errors, the solutions here will fix:
Quick Tip:
Windows Defender is not the best security tool out there. There are many safer bets for you, that include lots of other features and extra layers of protection.
We suggest switching to specialized antivirus software. You should look for one that uses advanced AI and machine learning to detect even the newest threats out there.
ESET HOME Security Essential
How do I know if a Microsoft security alert is real?
It’s actually quite simple and quick, given you know the ways to identify one. The appearance often helps verify if a security alert is fake. The ones from Microsoft will be well-designed, have no typos, and will have the option to ignore/close the prompt.
Secondly, the place where the security alert appears is another critical factor. Microsoft wouldn’t sendalerts while you are on a browseror other third-party apps. Besides, Microsoft wouldn’t ask you to contact an email address or a number.
How can I fix the Windows Defender unexpected error?
Before we head to the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick ones to get things up and running:
If none of these work, head to the solutions listed next.
1. Use antivirus-specific removal tools
Completely uninstall your old antivirus programs using this antivirus removal tool. There should be one on the software’s website. Then restart your computer, and Windows Defender should be able to install the latest updates and get things running.
In addition to antivirus removal tools, you can also use uninstaller tools for this job.
If you’re not familiar, uninstaller apps are specially designed to uninstall any program and remove all its files and registry entries from your PC. Therefore, we suggest you opt for thebest uninstaller software on Windows.
2. Run an SFC scan
Corrupt system files are a common reason behind theUnexpected errorin Windows Defender, and a simple SFC(System File Checker)scan should fix things.
3. Reset Windows Security
4. Modify the Registry
This method has helped several users fix things when the Windows SecurityUnexpected errorshowed up. But make sure to be extra cautious and not make any changes other than the ones described here.
5. Perform an in-place upgrade
An in-place upgrade fixes a wide range of issues, including the Windows DefenderUnexpected error. Though it will take some time, things should run smoothly after completion.
Also, the solutions here would work in case of the Exploit ProtectionUnexpected errorin Windows.
If you’re looking to upgrade the PC’s defense system, take a closer look at this list of thebest antivirus software with lifetime licensesand choose the one that best suits your requirements.
Tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below.
More about the topics:Windows Defender issues
Madalina Dinita
Networking & Security Specialist
Madalina has been a Windows fan ever since she got her hands on her first Windows XP computer.
She is interested in all things technology, especially emerging technologies – AI and DNA computing in particular.
Prior to joining the WindowsReport team, she worked in the corporate world for a number of years.
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Madalina Dinita
Networking & Security Specialist
Madalina is a Windows fan since forever, especially interested in AI, emerging technologies, privacy, and security.
