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This program’s service has stopped Windows Defender error
6 min. read
Updated onApril 3, 2024
updated onApril 3, 2024
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Key notes
TheThis program’s service has stoppederror on Windows Defender is an occasional nuisance for every Windows 10 user.
Users are complaining that the Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection Service on their local computer started and then stopped without any explanation.
If you’re getting this error, it means that Windows Defender is not running smoothly, or isn’t running at all.
If the Windows Defender Antivirus service keeps stopping, this leaves your computer vulnerable to malware, which is why you need to fix it immediately.
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s take a look at the full error message. Depending on the version of your Windows, you should be getting either one of these two errors:
As the error suggests, the quickest and easiest way to resolve the problem could be restarting your computer.
However, if the problem persists even after you restart your PC, you can try one of the following solutions.
How do I fixThis program’s service has stoppederror?
1. Turn on Windows Defender Service
The error message reads that Windows Defender has stopped. So, the first thing you should try is to manually turn it back on. You will need to do this via the Windows Services Manager.
2. Disable all third-party antimalware software
One of the most common reasons for getting theThis program’s service has stoppederror is due to third-party antimalware software.
Windows Defender tends to stop itself every time it receives a signal from these third-party programs. So, the reason you’re getting this error could either be that or some internal error.
To verify, try disabling all third-party antimalware applications and see if this resolves the problem.
If doing this solves your problem, you may have to re-install the third-party application. If not, move on to the next step.
3. Verify the Group Policy Editor settings
You could have accidentally turned off Windows Defender when using the Group Policy Editor. Also, malware could have accessed the Group Policy Editor and done so. To verify this, try the steps above.
Now, check if Windows Defender is up and running again. If not, proceed to the next step.
4. Use third-party software for Windows errors
Several issues can lead to Windows errors, including damaged registry files and incorrect settings values. We recommend usingthird-party repair toolsthat have multiple capabilities and can automatically address the issues that cause this error message.
With a prior deep scan of your operating system, the software will detect potential errors and replace affected files with new functional files.
In addition, you can fix stop error screen issues with automated support.
5. Verify Registry Editor settings
Sometimes, malware can change a Register key belonging to the Windows Defender service.
This could be one of the reasons you’re getting theThis program’s service has stoppederror. To verify this, try the steps above.
6. Re-register Windows Defender related DLL files
Occasionally, re-registering the Windows Defender related DLL files can also resolve the issues. To do this, follow the steps above.
7. Install a third-party antivirus
If you’re tired of Windows Defender problems, you’re not alone. Although it’s a pretty good solution, it has its share of issues and errors.
And that’s the moment when you should ask yourself if you want to continue tweaking it or getting a full-featured, powerful antivirus instead.
The tool recommended below is a trusted solution that is installed on over 110 million people’s systems all over the world and that’s for a good reason.
It is a top choice when it comes to privacy and security so you can take your banking online without fearing any attacks or ransomware that are so widespread right now.
ESET HOME Security Essential
We are confident that these solutions can have a positive outcome when it comes to resuscitating Windows Defender.
If not, there is always the choice of installing one of thebest antiviruses with unlimited license. It will save you some money and will free you from headaches.
Have you ever faced this error? If such is the case, don’t be shy to share your experience and any other possible solutions by hitting 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.
