This Windows 10 security setting will stop your PC from slowing down

Potentially unwanted apps can slow down your PC, and Windows 10 will soon block them by default.

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What you need to know

Windows 10’s Microsoft Defender and Microsoft Edge will soon automatically block potentially unwanted applications (PUAs) by default. The option to block these types of apps has been available since theWindows 10 May 2020 Update(version 2004) but has been disabled by default up to this point. Starting this month, the option will be enabled by default.

Asupport page from Microsoftstates, “Starting in early August 2021 we’ll begin turning it on by default to make it easier for you to keep your systems performing at their best” (viaBleeping Computer).

PUAs are apps that can cause your system to run slowly. They include apps that display ads, use your PC for cryptomining, and software that tries to install other programs on your PC.

Microsoft lists its criteria for PUAs in asupport document:

It’s possible to exclude files from being scanned by Microsoft Defender. People will also still have the option to turn off the feature, which can be done with the following steps:

Blocking downloads will stop Microsoft Edge from downloading PUAs. Blocking apps will have Microsoft Defender scan for PUAs.

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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.