What to Do If Your Antivirus Stops Working

Your antivirus software is a key line of defense against malware and other cyber threats. But what happens if it suddenly stops working? Whether it’s due to a system error, a conflict with other software, or a malware attack, restoring your antivirus functionality is crucial. Here’s what you should do.

1. Check for Updates

Outdated antivirus software is one of the most common reasons for it to stop working. Updates often fix bugs and improve compatibility with your operating system.

What to Do:

• Open your antivirus program and check for updates.
• If the program doesn’t open, visit the antivirus provider’s website to download the latest version.

2. Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve temporary glitches or conflicts that prevent your antivirus from working properly.

What to Do:

• Save any open files.
• Restart your computer and check if the antivirus starts functioning again.

3. Check Your Subscription Status

If your antivirus is a paid service, an expired subscription could be the reason it’s not working.

What to Do:

• Open the antivirus app and check your subscription status.
• Renew your subscription if it has expired.

4. Scan for Malware Using an Alternative Tool

In some cases, malware may disable your antivirus to make your system more vulnerable. Use an alternate scanning tool to identify and remove threats.

Recommended Tools:

• Malwarebytes: A powerful tool for detecting and removing malware.
• Microsoft Defender Offline: A built-in option for Windows users that can run a scan outside of the normal operating system.

5. Check for Software Conflicts

Other programs, especially other security tools, can sometimes conflict with your antivirus software and cause it to stop working.

What to Do:

• Uninstall any other antivirus or security programs that might be conflicting.
• Disable any firewalls temporarily to see if they’re causing the issue.

6. Reinstall the Antivirus Software

Corrupted files or incomplete installations can cause your antivirus to malfunction. A clean reinstallation often solves the problem.

What to Do:

• Uninstall the antivirus software from your system.
• Download the latest version from the official website and reinstall it.

7. Check System Settings

Antivirus software often relies on certain system settings to function properly. If these settings have been changed, it could cause the software to stop working.

What to Do:

• Ensure that Windows Security Center (or your system’s equivalent) recognizes your antivirus.
• Check that your system’s date and time are correct, as discrepancies can cause issues with security certificates.

8. Contact Customer Support

If none of the above steps work, the issue may be more complex. Your antivirus provider’s customer support team can help troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

What to Do:

• Visit the antivirus provider’s website for support options.
• Provide details about your operating system, antivirus version, and the issue you’re experiencing.

Preventative Tips to Avoid Future Issues

• Keep your antivirus and operating system updated.
• Avoid installing multiple antivirus programs on the same device.
• Regularly scan your device for malware and other threats.
• Use only reputable software from trusted providers.

Conclusion

When your antivirus stops working, your device becomes vulnerable to cyber threats. By following these steps, you can quickly identify the issue and restore your protection. Staying proactive with updates and maintenance ensures that your antivirus continues to function effectively.