Widows 8 added a new level of security for Internet Explorer SmartScreen that’s built directly into Windows Security.
This layer protects your system from downloading unwanted content or viruses on the Internet using Internet Explorer. Even though this is very useful, it can be annoying at times especially when you know the content you’re about to download isn’t a virus and yet keeps getting blocked by SmartScreen filter.
This brief tutorial is going to show you how to disable SmartScreen Filter in Windows 8.
To turn off the feature, press Windows Key + W on your keyboard to show the Charms bar for search. In the search box, type smartscreen, then select the result to ‘Change SmartScreen Settings’
When it opens, select ‘Change Windows SmartScreen settings’ on the left.
Finally, choose ‘Don’t do anything (turn off Windows SmartScreen)’
That’s all!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I disable SmartScreen Filter in Windows 8 for Internet Explorer?
To disable SmartScreen Filter in Windows 8, press Windows Key + W on your keyboard, type 'smartscreen' in the search box, select 'Change SmartScreen Settings', choose 'Change Windows SmartScreen settings' on the left, and finally, select 'Don’t do anything (turn off Windows SmartScreen).'
What is the purpose of SmartScreen Filter in Windows 8?
SmartScreen Filter in Windows 8 is a security feature built into Internet Explorer that helps protect your system from downloading potentially harmful content or viruses from the internet.
How can I turn off SmartScreen Filter notifications in Windows 8?
To turn off SmartScreen Filter notifications in Windows 8, go to 'Change Windows SmartScreen settings' and select 'Don’t do anything (turn off Windows SmartScreen)'. This will disable the notifications.
Is it safe to disable SmartScreen Filter in Windows 8?
Disabling SmartScreen Filter in Windows 8 may expose your system to potentially harmful content or viruses. It is recommended to only disable it if you are certain about the content you are downloading.
Can I re-enable SmartScreen Filter after turning it off in Windows 8?
Yes, you can re-enable SmartScreen Filter in Windows 8 by going back to the settings where you turned it off and selecting the appropriate option to enable it again.
Why does SmartScreen Filter keep blocking my downloads in Windows 8?
SmartScreen Filter in Windows 8 blocks downloads that it deems potentially harmful to your system. If you believe the content is safe, you can follow the steps to disable SmartScreen Filter temporarily.
Are there any alternatives to SmartScreen Filter in Windows 8 for Internet Explorer?
While SmartScreen Filter is a built-in security feature in Windows 8, you can explore third-party security software that offers similar protection for Internet Explorer.
Does disabling SmartScreen Filter affect the overall security of Windows 8?
Disabling SmartScreen Filter in Windows 8 may lower the security level of your system when downloading content through Internet Explorer. It is important to exercise caution when downloading files from the internet.