Windows Defender Stuck on Loading Fix 2026
## Direct Answer
To fix Windows Defender stuck on loading, try restarting the Windows Defender Service or resetting Windows Defender. You can also try updating Windows, disabling and re-enabling Windows Defender, or performing a System File Checker scan.
## Step-by-Step Guide
1. **Restart the Windows Defender Service**:
– Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
– Type “services.msc” and press Enter.
– Locate the Windows Defender Service, right-click it, and select Restart.
2. **Reset Windows Defender**:
– Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
– Click on Update & Security.
– Click on Windows Security.
– Click on Virus & threat protection.
– Click on Manage settings.
– Toggle off Real-time protection and Cloud-delivered protection.
– Restart your computer.
– Toggle Real-time protection and Cloud-delivered protection back on.
3. **Update Windows**:
– Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
– Click on Update & Security.
– Click on Windows Update.
– Click on Check for updates.
4. **Disable and Re-enable Windows Defender**:
– Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
– Type “regedit” and press Enter.
– Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender.
– Create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named “DisableAntiSpyware” and set its data to 1.
– Restart your computer.
– Delete the “DisableAntiSpyware” value.
– Restart your computer again.
5. **Perform a System File Checker Scan**:
– Press the Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin).
– Type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter.
## FAQ
– **Q: Why is Windows Defender stuck on loading?**
A: Windows Defender may be stuck on loading due to various reasons such as outdated software, corrupted system files, or conflicts with other security software.
– **Q: Will restarting the Windows Defender Service fix the issue?**
A: Restarting the Windows Defender Service may fix the issue, but if the problem persists, you may need to try other troubleshooting steps.
– **Q: Can I use a third-party antivirus software with Windows Defender?**
A: Yes, you can use a third-party antivirus software with Windows Defender, but make sure to configure them correctly to avoid conflicts.
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