How to Configure Reputation-Based Protection in Windows 11

Secure your Windows 11 PC by configuring Microsoft Defender SmartScreen reputation-based protection to block malicious apps, files, and sites.

  1. Open Windows Security settings. Press the Windows key and type Windows Security into the search bar. Select the app from the results to open the security dashboard.
  2. Access App & browser control. From the main dashboard, click on App & browser control in the left-hand navigation menu. This section manages the security policies for downloaded content.
  3. Modify reputation-based protection settings. Locate the Reputation-based protection section and click the link labeled Reputation-based protection settings. This opens the granular control interface.
  4. Enable app and file protection. Ensure the Check apps and files toggle is set to On. This uses Microsoft Defender SmartScreen to identify unrecognized apps and potentially malicious downloads.
  5. Secure Microsoft Edge browsing. Set the SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge toggle to On. This protects your browser sessions by blocking malicious websites and downloads encountered while surfing the web.
  6. Enable Potentially Unwanted App (PUA) blocking. Under the Potentially unwanted app blocking heading, turn the toggle to On. Ensure the Block apps and Block downloads checkboxes are both selected for maximum coverage.

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