Malware · critical

How to fixSECURITY_SERVICE_DISABLED

Security Center Service Blockage (Defender Disabler)

What this error means

Security Center Service Blockage (Defender Disabler) ranks as a critical-severity malware/security issue in our database. This diagnosis identifies active registry or group policy modifications that disable Windows Defender, Security Center services, and Windows Update, leaving the operating system vulnerable. This can also stem from malicious scripts executed with administrative privileges. The steps below are ordered to resolve this efficiently.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Re-enable Windows Defender services using the built-in Service Controller or Registry Editor.

Re-enable Windows Defender services using the built-in Service Controller or Registry Editor..

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM to restore modified registry keys and system service files.

Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM to restore modified registry keys and system service files..

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Reset local group policies back to default configurations.

Reset local group policies back to default configurations..

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • Malicious scripts executed with administrative privileges.
  • Trojan downloaders terminating system security dependencies.