You can use command prompt tool to check whether Windows Defender files are corrupted. Method 2 – Run System File Checker (SFC)Īnother method that you can opt for is system file diagnosis and repair. Once the installations finished, you need to restart your system. You can use some uninstaller software that will remove all remnants of your previous antivirus. Moreover, you need to make sure that uninstallation is done properly all residue files of that software otherwise it will keep creating a problem for Windows Defender to get started. Therefore, you need to first start uninstallation any third party antimalware software. Windows Defender automatically shuts itself down once it detects any third party anti-malware software installed on your system. One of the most common causes of Windows Defender not working is third-party antivirus software. Method 1 – Uninstall any third-party Antivirus software Make sure to create a restore point just in case something goes wrong. Fix Unable to turn on Windows Defender in Windows 10 Anyway, without wasting any time let’s see How to fix the underlying cause of this issue using the below-listed troubleshooting guide. Therefore, not able to turn on this feature could be a serious problem. There are many reasons for you not being able to turn on Windows Defender in Windows 10 such as third-party Antivirus might be interfering, Windows Defender is turned off by group policy, incorrect date/time issue, etc. One thing we need to understand that Windows Defender provides complete protection to our system.