- Resolving “No Action Needed” and Non-Working “Start Actions” in Windows Security
- Try Restarting Your Computer
- Temporarily Disable Other Security Software
- Verify Your Windows Defender Group Policy
- Check You Have Admin Privileges
- Update Windows and Windows Defender
- Run a Full Windows Defender Scan
- Use the Built-In Troubleshooter
- Reset the Windows Security App
- When to Contact Microsoft Support
- References
Resolving “No Action Needed” and Non-Working “Start Actions” in Windows Security
As Windows users, we’ve all seen those pesky "Threats found" warnings in the Windows Security app. However, when we try to take action by clicking the "Start Actions" button, nothing happens! The button quivers mockingly and the threat remains.
To add insult to injury, the main Windows Security screen claims "No action needed." Which is it, Windows – do we have threats or not?!
In this post, we’ll walk through the top solutions for resolving Windows Security’s "No action needed" message and non-working "Start Actions" button. Follow our guide, and you’ll vanquish those threats once and for all!
Try Restarting Your Computer
This may seem obvious, but a simple restart can clear up many Windows Security glitches. Windows services and processes reset when you restart, often resolving hiccups like stuck buttons and misleading status messages.
Give your computer a restart and then check Windows Security again. The "Start Actions" button may now work properly.
Temporarily Disable Other Security Software
Other antivirus or security tools on your system can clash with Windows Security, preventing its buttons and shields from working correctly. Try disabling any third-party security software as a test.
If Windows Security operates normally with your other security disabled, you know the conflict is to blame. You can then adjust configurations or remove the problematic software.
Verify Your Windows Defender Group Policy
Check that your Group Policy setting for Windows Defender is not disabling the antivirus. Pull up the Local Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) and navigate toComputer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Defender Antivirus.
Ensure the "Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus" policy is set to "Not Configured" or "Disabled." If it’s Enabled, switch it Off to restore Windows Security functionality.
Check You Have Admin Privileges
You need administrator access to take action against detected threats in Windows Security. Log into an admin account on your PC and try using the "Start Actions" button again.
If it works properly while you’re logged in as admin, insufficient privileges were likely the culprit for standard users.
Update Windows and Windows Defender
Older versions of Windows and the Windows Defender antivirus engine can experience problems like unresponsive buttons.
Install the latest Windows updates and make sure Windows Defender Antivirus is up-to-date by clicking "Check for updates" within the app. Updated components may resolve your issue.
Run a Full Windows Defender Scan
While quick scans are useful for a speedy system checkup, they can sometimes miss threats that lead to Windows Security glitches. Run a full scan of your system using Windows Defender.
The deep scan will detect and remove any lurking malware that regular scans are missing. Removing those hidden threats can get Windows Security working properly again.
Use the Built-In Troubleshooter
For automated troubleshooting, use Windows 10’s specialized Windows Security troubleshooter. You can find it underSettings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Security.
The troubleshooter checks for common problems and attempts to resolve them automatically. This can quickly fix Windows Security quirks without the hassle.
Reset the Windows Security App
If all else fails, resetting the Windows Security app may do the trick. This restores Windows Security to default settings and often resolves stubborn interface issues.
To reset, head toSettings > Apps > Apps & features. Search for "Windows Security" and select "Advanced options" to "Reset" the app.
This wipe should clear out any corrupted data or weird settings that are interfering with Windows Security.
When to Contact Microsoft Support
If you still see "No action needed" and can’t use the "Start Actions" button after trying the solutions here, your Windows Security installation may need professional help. Consider contacting Microsoft Support for personalized troubleshooting advice.
We hope this guide helps you squash frustrating Windows Security snags! Let us know in the comments if you have any other tips for handling uncooperative threat notifications and buttons. We’d love to learn some new fixes directly from our clever readers!
