How to Fix Windows Defender Protection History Not Showing

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With over 1.3 billion active Windows devices globally, Microsoft’s Windows operating system dominates the desktop environment. However, such widespread adoption also makes Windows a prime target for cyber threats. Fortunately, Windows packs robust security features that empower users to safeguard their devices.

In this guide, we’ll explore Windows security in-depth, uncovering tips and tricks to optimize protection. Let’s get started!

The Bedrock of Windows Security: Microsoft Defender Antivirus

Windows Defender Antivirus provides the foundation for securing Windows devices, delivering proactive scans and real-time monitoring to detect and neutralize emerging threats.

Here are some key aspects of this built-in antivirus solution:

  • Multi-layered defense powered by next-gen technologies like machine learning and cloud-delivered protection.
  • Always-available virus scans to check for malware at any time.
  • Automatic sample submission to improve detections through big data.
  • Minimal system impact due to efficient processes.

According to Microsoft, Defender Antivirus utilizes advanced heuristics, generics, and machine learning models, processing over 400 billion signals daily for comprehensive protection.

How to delete Windows Defender history service?

If you need to delete now. Delete folder Service C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Scans\History\ Service . After deleting the folder Service, off and turn on (OFF>ON) Real-Time protection and Cloud protection.

How to find defender history in Windows 10?

You can also paste the C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Scans\History path in the File Explorer navigation bar and then hit enter. Alternatively, you can navigate to the Defender Protection History folder using the above path in File Explorer.

Monitoring Threats with the Windows Security App

The Windows Security app offers a centralized interface to view the security status of your device. To access it:

  1. Click the Start menu and search for ‘Windows Security’.
  2. Open the app.

Here, you can check for Windows updates, adjust Windows Defender settings, view your protection history, and more. The firewall and other security providers are also managed within Windows Security.

A key section is Protection History which logs all malware removals, successful detections, and remediation actions by Windows Defender. However, some users have reported this not populating correctly.

If your Protection History isn’t showing despite active threats, try resetting Windows Security app data and check for Windows or antivirus updates.

Optimizing Windows Defender for Enhanced Protection

While Windows Defender provides far-reaching defense out-of-the-box, you can further optimize its capabilities:

  • Enable cloud-based protection under Virus & Threat protection settings to leverage Microsoft’s global intelligence network.

  • Adjust detection exclusions to avoid false positives that trigger unnecessary scans on harmless files.

    How to delete protection history log on Windows 11?

    Like many applications, Windows Defender stores the log of Protection History on your computer as an accessible file. The quickest and easiest way to access and delete the Protection History log on Windows 11 is by using the File Explorer. Here’s how to do that: Step 1: Press the Windows + E key to open File Explorer.

    How to clear Windows Defender protection history?

    Whenever the Windows Defender runs a scan on your computer, it automatically stores the protection history. If you want to clear the protection history, you can use the below method. 1. Press Windows key + X together from the keyboard and click on File explorer to open file explorer. 2.

  • Schedule regular quick scans to proactively catch any new threats.

  • Update Windows Defender threat definitions regularly via the Windows Update page.

  • Use the Windows Defender Offline tool to detect deeply embedded malware.

  • Configure additional ransomware protection for high-risk folders.

Securing Your Network with Windows Firewall

The built-in Windows Firewall controls network traffic, blocking unauthorized access and stopping malware spread.

Under Firewall & Network protection in Windows Security, you can:

  • Allow/deny apps network access.

  • Enable/disable the firewall.

  • Allow/block specific connection types like public networks.

  • View the active firewall profile based on network location.

The firewall offers domain, public and private profiles to adjust protection levels based on whether you’re at home, work or a public place.

For enhanced security, restrict network access to only trusted applications.

The Importance of Software Updates

Cybercriminals continually probe for vulnerabilities in operating systems that can be exploited. That’s why regularly updating Windows is crucial.

How to clear protection history in Windows Security & Windows Defender?

Press the Win + I key to open the Settings menu. Select Update & Security. Click on Windows Security on the left. Select Virus & threat protection. Click on Threat history. Hit the Remove all button. That is it from us in this guide. The above steps guide you on how to clear your protection history in Windows Security or Windows Defender.

How do I delete detection history in Windows 10?

C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Scans\History\Service\DetectionHistory This will open the DetectionHistory folder. Delete all entries in that folder by right clicking on them and select Delete from the menu that appears. Or if you have menu ribbon enabled simply select entry by left clicking on it then red Delete button on menu ribbon.

How to clear Windows Defender log?

Next, go to the Windows Defender folder on the left pane, right-click on Operational. Click on Clear Log on the menu. Step 6: It will open a prompt with three options. Select Clear or Save and Clear based on your requirement and you are done clearing the protection history in Windows Defender.

What is Windows Defender & how does it work?

Windows Defender is Microsoft’s antivirus built into your Windows PC to protect you from viruses, malware threats, and attacks. It maintains a record of its scans and actions in its Protection History folder. Though Protection History gets deleted after some time, you might want to have more control to clear it by yourself.

Follow these steps for smooth updates:

  • Use Windows Update (Win + I > Update & Security) to patch security flaws, drivers, etc.

  • Pause updates if actively using device to prevent disruption.

  • Customize active hours to control update installation timings.

  • Review update history to check for issues.

  • Leverage Windows Update for Business (for Pro editions) to defer updates across devices.

Keeping Windows updated eliminates viable attack vectors, lowering the risk of intrusions. For additional protection, also update third-party apps and tools.

A Holistic Approach for Robust Windows Security

While built-in Windows security tools form a advanced defensive base, adopting a layered approach is key to combating modern advanced threats.

Here are some additional best practices worth following:

  • Install a robust third-party antivirus for dual protection.

  • Use dedicated anti-malware scanners to detect deeply embedded threats.

  • Enable Windows Defender Application Guard to isolate untrusted sites in Edge.

  • Configure UEFI Secure Boot to check for firmware-level malware.

    How do I clear windows security protection history?

    You can also scan your system manually by using Windows Defender. The threats found by Windows Defender and the actions taken by it to resolve the threats are saved on the Protection History page of Windows Security. Change Time to Clear Windows Security Protection History The default time to clear Windows Security Protection History is 15 days.

    How long does Windows security protection history last?

    This means that the protection history of Windows Security will be cleared automatically after 15 days. You can view this default time on your computer by running a command in an elevated Windows PowerShell. Go through the following instructions to view the time to clear Windows Security Protection History.

    How do I remove or delete Windows Defender protection history?

    Stay in touch with the latest in the world of Windows! There are 3 ways using which you can manually remove or delete Windows Defender Protection History – PowerShell, Event Viewer or Explorer.

  • Practice safe browsing habits and avoid suspicious links, attachments, etc.

A blend of vigilance, updated software and layered security provides optimal protection on Windows. For more technology insights, be sure to check out our blog regularly!

Key Takeaways on Windows Security

  • Windows Defender Antivirus offers a multi-layered first line of defense.

  • The Windows Security app centralizes protection monitoring and management.

  • Regular software patches eliminate vulnerabilities targeted by threats.

  • Going beyond built-in tools with advanced third-party security is advised.

Robust Windows security hinges on consistent software updates, antivirus integration, and smart practices. With well-rounded defense, you can harness the full potential of your Windows device stress-free!

References

  1. https://www.minitool.com/news/protection-history-not-showing.html
  2. https://ugetfix.com/ask/how-to-fix-windows-defender-protection-history-missing-in-windows/

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