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To turn Microsoft Defender SmartScreen on or off, open Windows Security > App & browser control > Reputation-based protection, then change Check apps and files. That setting checks apps and files downloaded from the web. If you mean protection in Edge, change SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge separately.
Choose the SmartScreen control that matches what you want to change
The Reputation-based protection page has separate controls, so select the one that matches your goal:
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- Check apps and files: SmartScreen evaluation of apps and files downloaded from the web.
- SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge: protection for browsing and downloads in Microsoft Edge.
Microsoft describes the first toggle as turning on SmartScreen to evaluate the reputation of apps and files you may download from the web. Changing one control does not substitute for changing the other.
Open App & browser control in Windows 11 or Windows 10
- Open Start > Settings.
- Open the Windows Security settings page:
- Windows 11: select Privacy & security > Windows Security.
- Windows 10: select Update & Security > Windows Security.
- Select App & browser control.
- Open Reputation-based protection.
- Switch Check apps and files on or off. To change Edge protection instead, switch SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge on or off.
Settings labels can vary between Windows builds. If a label differs, use the closest matching Windows Security page on your installed version.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
What changes when you turn Check apps and files off
Turning it off stops this SmartScreen check for apps and files downloaded from the web. Microsoft says SmartScreen sends information about websites visited and files downloaded to Microsoft to help warn about unsafe web content or malicious software. Consider that privacy trade-off alongside the loss of this warning when deciding whether to disable it.
SmartScreen is not Smart App Control
Smart App Control is a separate feature that may also appear under App & browser control. Do not use it as a substitute for the SmartScreen reputation-based protection setting. Microsoft documents Smart App Control as unavailable in Windows 10.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
If Windows will not let you change the setting
On a work- or school-managed device, an organization policy may control reputation-based protection and make its settings unavailable. Contact your IT administrator if the control is locked or marked as managed; do not try to bypass the organization’s policy.
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Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
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