Windows Defender is the pre-installed antimalware software that comes with the Windows 10 operating system that protects users from malware. Many Windows 10 users have expressed concern that Windows Defender will not update on their machines. The majority of these issues stem from Windows Defender failing to update virus definitions, which commonly occurs when the user’s internet connection is strong. When you first start Windows Defender, you may see a notification about definition updates, or when you try to check for updates and it says they can’t be checked, downloaded, or installed. If the Windows Defender update fails, try the solutions indicated below to fix the problem.
Methods On How to fix Windows Defender Won’t Update
Method 1: Preliminary Corrections
Before we get into the more extensive explanations, let’s go through some basic checks and procedures to follow:
- Check to see whether you have any other security software installed, as this will stop Windows Defender and prevent it from receiving updates. Remove any anti-malware software that is currently installed on your computer.
- Check for updates through the Windows Defender Update Interface, and if that doesn’t work, try Windows Update; to do so, click the shield symbol in the notification area, select Virus & Threat Protection, and then Check for updates.
- Install all pending updates and restart your computer before trying the Windows Defender update again; Set Windows Defender to check for updates automatically.
- Run the troubleshooter for Windows Update.
Method 2: Install Update Definitions Manually
Updates are often delivered by Microsoft via Windows Update, Automatic Updates, or the Windows Server Update Service (WSUS). Because of issues with these services, Windows Defender won’t update in some circumstances. Manually update the definitions in this situation, as mentioned above. If you were able to manually install updates, the problem is due to a Windows Update issue. You can visit Windows Security Portal for more updates.
Method 3: Set the Windows Defender Service to Automatic Mode
Step 1: Open the Run box by pressing the Windows key + R keyboard shortcut.
Step 2: Type services.msc into the search box followed by Enter Key
Step 3: Right-click the Windows Defender antivirus service and select Properties.
Step 4: Make sure Service Status is up and functioning.
Step 5: Ascertain that the startup type is Automatic (if not, select Startup type as automatic and click Start).
Step 6: Click Apply then click OK.
Method 4: SFC Scan
Step 1: Press the Start button.
Step 2: In the search box, type cmd.
Step 3: To run Command Prompt in elevated mode, choose Run as Administrator.
Step 4: Press Enter after typing sfc/scannow.
This will see whether any corrupted system files are preventing the default antivirus from being updated.
Method 5: Use an Alternative Antivirus
When Windows Defender fails to suit your needs, it’s time to look for a replacement. So, if you want to be free of update issues forever, use the approach below.
Systweak Antivirus guards your computer against all types of dangerous attacks in real-time. It also includes the StopAllAds browser plugin, which filters annoying adverts and protects the computer by blocking the download or access of malware and other types of harmful software. Systweak Antivirus protects your computer from exploits 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It improves the current performance of the computer by serving as a one-stop-shop for all security requirements. Here are some of the features:
In-the-moment security
Systweak Antivirus is one of the few antivirus apps that can detect potential dangers or applications based on their behavior on your computer.
It is simple to operate
This app has a user interface that is simple to use for everyone in your household.
Light-Weight
Because it won’t waste your CPU resources, software that consumes the fewest system resources is regarded as the finest.
Browsing the Internet Safely
It’s a broad phrase for surfing the internet. With this app, you can browse the internet while an ad blocker plugin filters advertisements.
Startup Items can be managed
Components that slow down the startup time of the computer can be turned off by users.
The Final Word on How to fix Windows Defender Won’t Update
Windows Defender won’t update is a serious error as without updated virus definitions your Windows Defender is of no use. It just becomes a resource-hogging app that does not protect your system from new threats. Hence it is recommended to keep your antivirus apps updated and Windows defender is no exception. You can use the above methods to fix the issue and if you are still facing issues then an alternative like Systweak Antivirus is the best option.
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FAQs –
How do I force Windows Defender to update?
Manually triggering an update is possible with Microsoft Defender Antivirus and other Microsoft antimalware programs. To check for the latest updates in Windows 10, go to the Windows Security Virus & Threat Protection page and click Check for updates.
How do I fix the Windows Defender update failed on Windows 10?
If a Microsoft Defender update fails, you should first check Windows Update and try downloading and installing all updates to resolve the problem.
Why won’t my Windows security updates install?
If your machine does not have adequate storage space, Windows will not be able to install updates. If your hard drive is full and you need to update your system, consider adding more space. You can also execute a disc cleanup as an option. Look for the Disk Cleanup application and launch it.