How to Bypass ‘This app has been blocked for your protection’ in Windows 10

Windows 10 may block apps from unknown publishers or potential threats. This process is based on security policies enforced by User Account Control (UAC) or Windows Defender SmartScreen. However, some legitimate apps, including older software or custom enterprise tools, can sometimes be incorrectly flagged.

If you encounter this issue and trust the app’s source, you may want to override the security message that says, ‘This app has been blocked for your protection. This guide will show you how to bypass blocked app in Windows 10 using safe and effective methods.

What is the “This app has been blocked for your protection” error, and why it happens

The “This app has been blocked for your protection” error is a Windows security message that appears when the system detects an application that may pose a risk to your computer. It typically occurs when you try to run or install an app from an unknown source or one that has failed security verification.

This warning is triggered by User Account Control (UAC) and is often enforced by Windows Defender SmartScreen.

📖 ALSO READ: How to Configure Windows Defender SmartScreen Using PowerShell

Methods to bypass ‘This app has been blocked for your protection’ warning

Windows enforces strict security policies that may prevent certain apps from launching, even if you believe they’re safe. Below are four effective methods to help you bypass the blocked apps warning and run your software successfully.

Note: All methods require administrator privileges to execute.

Method 1: Run the app as an administrator via Command Prompt

Running an app as an administrator via Command Prompt grants it elevated access to your system. This can be risky if the app is untrusted, so make sure it comes from a reliable source or has been scanned for malware before proceeding.

📖 ALSO READ: How to Use Windows Defender to Scan for Malware

1. Press Win + S to open the Windows search bar and type cmd.
2. Once the Command Prompt is found, right-click and select Run as administrator.
3. Confirm the User Account Control (UAC) prompt by clicking Yes.
4. In the Command Prompt window, use the cd (change directory) command to go to the folder where your application is located.
   • Example: cd C:\Path\To\Application
5. Once in the correct directory, type the application’s name, then hit Enter.
   • Example: application.exe
6. The application should now run with administrator privileges and without being blocked by the error message.

Method 2: Unblock the file via File Properties

Windows can sometimes flag downloaded files as unsafe. To lift security restrictions, you can manually unblock these files through their properties, but be sure to do this only for files you trust.

1. Select the blocked application and press Alt + Enter to open its Properties.
   • Alternatively, you can right-click the blocked application and select Properties.
2. Under the General tab, look for the Security section near the bottom.
3. Tick the Unblock checkbox, then tap Apply > OK.

Method 3: Disable SmartScreen temporarily

Disabling SmartScreen lowers your system security, so it’s not recommended for long-term use. Only use this method if you’re confident the app is safe, and make sure to re-enable SmartScreen immediately after running the app.

1. Press Win + S to open the Windows search bar.
2. Type Windows Security and hit Enter once found.
3. Go to App & browser control from the left sidebar.
4. Under Reputation-based protection, click Reputation-based protection settings.
5. Toggle Off the options for the following:
   • Check apps and files
   • Potentially unwanted app blocking
   • SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge
   • SmartScreen for Microsoft Store apps
6. Now, try running the previously blocked application again.
7. Once the application has been successfully run or installed, go back to the Reputation-based protection settings and re-enable SmartScreen to continue protecting your system.

Method 4: Modify Local Group Policy (For Windows 10 Pro & Enterprise)

This method is recommended only for IT administrators and advanced users who manage trusted applications within enterprise systems.

1. Press Win + R to open the Run Dialog box.
2. Type gpedit.msc and hit Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
3. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > Security Options.
4. Look in the right-hand pane for the User Account Control: Run all administrators in Admin Approval Mode policy.
5. Double-click on it and select Disabled.
6. Click Apply, then OK.
7. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
8. After rebooting, try running the previously blocked application again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Windows blocking my app?

Windows may block an app if it comes from an unknown publisher, lacks a digital signature, or attempts to make system-level changes without verified permissions. This security measure helps prevent malware infections and protects your computer from threats.

Is it safe to bypass this warning?

It’s only safe to bypass this warning if you’re 100% sure the app comes from a trusted source, such as your company or a reputable developer. If the app was downloaded unexpectedly or from an unknown website, it’s best not to proceed. Always be cautious with unverified software to keep your system secure.

Will disabling SmartScreen affect my PC’s security?

Yes, disabling SmartScreen removes an essential layer of protection against malicious apps. It’s best to disable it only temporarily, re-enable it immediately after running the blocked app, and manually scan files for added safety.

What if the app still won’t run after bypassing?

If the app still refuses to run after you’ve tried different bypass methods, you can try running it in Compatibility Mode. This can help, especially if the app was designed for an older version of Windows. Here’s how to do it:

1. Locate the app’s executable file (.exe).
2. Right-click on it and select Properties.
3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
4. Check Run this program in compatibility mode for, then choose the Windows version the app was originally designed for.
5. Click Apply, then OK.
6. Try relaunching the app.

Note: Compatibility Mode doesn’t bypass UAC or SmartScreen restrictions, but it may help if the app fails to launch due to issues related to your version conflicts or outdated software behavior.

Why does it say, ‘An administrator has blocked you from running this app’?

If you see the message that an administrator has blocked you from running this app, it means the system administrator has explicitly restricted that app through the Group Policy or Windows Defender Application Control.

How to bypass ‘An administrator has blocked you from running this app’?

You may still try the previously mentioned methods, such as running the app as administrator, unblocking it via file properties, temporarily disabling SmarScreen or modifying Local Group Policy to bypass the block. However, keep in mind that administrative-level changes may still be required.

Bypass ‘This app has been blocked for your protection’ with caution

Windows blocks certain apps for security reasons using features like SmartScreen and UAC. You can bypass these restrictions by running the app as administrator, unblocking it via File Properties, or temporarily disabling SmartScreen. Advanced users can also modify Local Group Policy settings to manage app restrictions more precisely.

However, security should always come first. Only bypass these warnings if you fully trust the app’s source. Remember, these security measures exist to keep your system protected.