Solved Can't access Defender

I have a laptop running Windows 8. McAfee was pre-installed, and I want to switch to Defender. I have read the advice that having McAfee on the machine prevents my entering Defender, so I have uninstalled McAfee. However, when I try to access Defender, I still get the message "Windows Defender has been turned off. If you are using another app for malicious or unwanted software, use Action Centre to check that app's status"

So, here i am stuck. I am not now using another app, and I cannot get beyond this notice into Defender.

Any help please on what to do?

Have you rebooted since removing McAfee?

Hello Coxwall, and welcome to Eight Forums.

In addition, double check to make sure that you have turned on Windows Defender.
If you like, the tutorial below to add Windows Defender to the desktop context menu can help make it easier to use.
Hope this helps,
Shawn

Yes, I have rebooted several times.

My problem is that I cannot access the Defender control panel. I get the message I quoted in my query, and there is no way I can get beyond it. If I click on it, , it just shuts.

coxwall said:

......My problem is that I cannot access the Defender control panel. I get the message I quoted in my query, and there is no way I can get beyond it. If I click on it, , it just shuts.....

Click to expand...

You won't be able to. You'll need to use OPTION TWO in the tutorial below to be able to turn Windows Defender on.

http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/21962-windows-defender-turn-off-windows-8-a.html

Reference: http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/21962-windows-defender-turn-off-windows-8-a.html#post223602

You're most welcome Coxwall. Glad it could help.