Smart App Control in Windows 11 is designed to protect your PC from untrusted or potentially harmful apps. While it sounds useful, many users find it too restrictive, especially when installing older software, developer tools, or third-party apps. If you’re frustrated and want full control back, this guide will show you how to turn off Smart App Control in Windows 11 safely and correctly.
What Is Smart App Control in Windows 11?
Smart App Control is a cloud-powered security feature that blocks apps Windows considers unsafe or untrusted. It works silently in the background and relies on Microsoft’s reputation-based protection system.
However, once enabled, you can’t simply toggle it off unless certain conditions are met.
Quick Answer (Featured Snippet)
To turn off Smart App Control in Windows 11:
- Open Settings
- Go to Privacy & Security → Windows Security
- Click App & browser control
- Open Smart App Control
- Select Off (only available on eligible systems)
⚠️ If the toggle is missing or locked, a Windows reset is required.
Why Smart App Control Can Be a Problem
Users commonly disable Smart App Control because:
- It blocks legitimate apps without warning
- Developer tools and unsigned software won’t run
- No temporary disable option
- Conflicts with third-party antivirus programs
If you frequently customize your system or install niche software, disabling it makes sense.
Method 1: How to Deactivate Smart App Control in Windows 11 (Settings Method)
This method works only if Smart App Control hasn’t locked itself yet.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings
- Go to Privacy & Security
- Click Windows Security
- Select App & browser control
- Open Smart App Control
- Choose Off
If the option is greyed out or missing, move to Method 2.
Method 2: Turn Off Smart App Control Windows 11 Using Reset (Guaranteed Method)
Once Smart App Control is fully enabled, Windows does not allow disabling it manually.
Steps:
- Open Settings → System → Recovery
- Click Reset this PC
- Choose Keep my files
- Complete the reset process
- During setup, select Off when prompted for Smart App Control
✅ This is currently the only guaranteed way.
Can You Turn Off Smart App Control Windows 11 GPO?
❌ No, Smart App Control cannot be disabled using Group Policy (GPO).
Even enterprise users cannot fully control it via:
- Group Policy Editor
- Registry Editor
- PowerShell
This limitation is intentional and enforced by Microsoft.
How to Turn On Smart App Control in Windows 11 Without Reinstalling Windows
At the moment, you cannot re-enable Smart App Control without resetting Windows.
Once turned off:
- No toggle to turn it back on
- Requires a clean system state
This is why Microsoft treats it as a one-time decision feature.
Smart App Control vs Control Center on Lock Screen (Clarification)
Many users confuse Smart App Control with Control Center features on the lock screen.
If you’re looking for how to disable control center on lock screen, note that:
- It’s unrelated to Smart App Control
- Managed under Lock screen & notification settings
They are completely separate features.
Is It Safe to Disable Smart App Control?
Yes—if you follow basic security practices, such as:
- Installing apps from trusted sources
- Using Windows Defender or a reliable antivirus
- Keeping Windows updated
Advanced users often disable it without issues.
Related Helpful Guides (Internal Links)
For better Windows optimization, check these guides:
- 👉 How to Cascade Windows in Windows 11 (Easy Taskbar Shortcut Guide)
- 👉 How to Find a Circular Reference in Excel (Windows & Mac)
- 👉 How to Check CPU Temp in Windows 11 (Easy & Accurate Methods)
Frequently Asked Questions (Short AI Overview–Ready)
Can I turn off Smart App Control without resetting Windows?
No. Once enabled, a system reset is required.
Does Smart App Control affect performance?
No major performance impact, but it can block legitimate apps.
Is Smart App Control the same as Windows Defender?
No. It’s a separate app reputation filter.
Can I disable Smart App Control using registry?
No. Registry edits do not work.
Final Thoughts
Smart App Control is powerful, but it’s not for everyone. If you value freedom, flexibility, and full system access, disabling it is the right move—just be aware that Windows makes this decision permanent without a reset.
If you’re an advanced user, developer, or power installer, turning it off can make Windows 11 far more usable.