If you have ever seen the message “Windows has blocked this software because it cannot verify the manufacturer” When you try to install a program, you are not alone. This type of warning appears as a security measure in Windows operating systems to protect your computer from potential risks, such as malicious files or unverified software.
This blocking can be frustrating, especially when you are sure that the software you want to install is safe. However, it is important to understand that Windows, either through Internet Explorer or through SmartScreen in newer versions, cares about keeping your computer free of threats. Below, we offer a complete guide with different methods and ways to unblock this type of software on various Windows systems.
Why does Windows block unverified software?
The reason behind this message has to do with security controls built into the operating system. In older versions of Windows, such as XP or Vista, Internet Explorer and ActiveX were used to verify the origin of the developers. If the software did not have a valid digital signature, it was automatically blocked.
In newer versions, such as Windows 10, This task has been transferred to SmartScreen, a security tool integrated into the operating system under the Windows Defender umbrella. This layer of protection scans both web pages and the files we download to prevent the installation of potentially harmful software.
How to Unblock Software in Internet Explorer
If you are using an older version of Windows, such as Windows 7 or 8, and you still use Internet Explorer to download files or deploy ActiveX, the blocking can be disabled directly from the browser settings. Here's how to do it.
- Open Internet Explorer and go to Internet Options in the tools menu.
- Go to the tab Security and select the option Custom level.
- In this window, look for the section of ActiveX Controls and Plugins and find the option that says Download unsigned ActiveX controls. Change it to “Enable”.
- Also enable the option Initialize and script unsafe ActiveX controls.
- Apply the changes, restart the browser and you can proceed with the installation of the blocked software.
It is important to note that after making these changes, the browser will warn you that the settings are not secure. While this step allows you to install the necessary software, you should be careful about which programs you choose to run on your computer.
Disable SmartScreen in Windows 10
In Windows 10, SmartScreen protection is responsible for blocking unverified software. While you can temporarily unblock a program, It is also possible to disable SmartScreen completelyHowever, this option should be taken with caution, as disabling this protection leaves your PC vulnerable to external attacks.
To disable SmartScreen from the pop-up prompt, follow these steps:
- When the blocking message appears, click on the link that says Learn more.
- Then select the option Run anywayThis action allows the installation of blocked software without having to permanently disable SmartScreen.
If you prefer to disable SmartScreen permanently, follow these steps:
- Open the menu Configuration Windows and go to Update and security.
- Choose Windows security and then Application and browser control.
- In the option Reputation-Based Protection, disable the option Check apps and files.
- Also disable the options for SmartScreen in Microsoft Edge if you use this browser.
Windows Security Considerations
Disabling these protections may make it easier for you to install software, but It also opens the door to potential risks.. SmartScreen and ActiveX are designed to prevent malicious files from compromising your computer, so it is essential that you only install software from trusted sources.
For ActiveX controls, which are more common in enterprises and legacy systems, it's important to ensure they come from a legitimate source before making decisions such as changing security settings.
While it seems like a quick fix to disable SmartScreen permanently, most security experts report that You should only do it temporarily to install software that you fully trust.
What to do if the crash keeps appearing?
In some cases, even if you follow all the steps indicated, Windows continues to block the installation of the software. This may be due to other layers of security in the system, such as antivirus. Some programs or third party antivirus They may interpret the locked file as a threat.
- Go to your antivirus settings and add the URL or file as an exception, preventing it from being blocked in the future.
- If the problem persists and you don't want to disable your antivirus, try running the file in safe mode.
However, remember that adding exceptions to your antivirus also carries risks, as you will be removing an important layer of security from your system.
Ultimately, if you decide to disable protections like SmartScreen or ActiveX, Make sure to turn them back on once the necessary software has been installed, as keeping them active is crucial for the daily protection of your computer against potential malware threats and other vulnerabilities.
- The blocking is due to security mechanisms such as SmartScreen or ActiveX.
- It is possible to unlock software from system or browser settings.
- Disabling these protections increases the risk of vulnerabilities.
I am a technology enthusiast who has turned his "geek" interests into a profession. I have spent more than 10 years of my life using cutting-edge technology and tinkering with all kinds of programs out of pure curiosity. Now I have specialized in computer technology and video games. This is because for more than 5 years I have been writing for various websites on technology and video games, creating articles that seek to give you the information you need in a language that is understandable to everyone.
If you have any questions, my knowledge ranges from everything related to the Windows operating system as well as Android for mobile phones. And my commitment is to you, I am always willing to spend a few minutes and help you resolve any questions you may have in this internet world.