Windows Defender failed to initialize

Question

Hello,

A family member gave us this computer, still only a few years old and in good condition. However, when I turn it on, it makes that awful error noise gives me the message 'Windows Defender failed to initialize'. What does Windows Defender do, and do I need to worry about it? It says to click Start, then go to the Help & Support section and search to start service manually, but I couldn't find any reference to starting service manually. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thank you.

jmwills · Answer

A 'physical noise' or a 'computer generated' noise?

JAWill · Answer

A computer generated noise. It's the sound the computer makes when something doesn't work, like downloading or bringing something up, or an error. It's a familiar sound.

Bugbatter · Answer

Windows Defender is an anti-spyware program by Microsoft. When the beta version expired last December, it would do that. Try downloading the updated version and see if you still have problems.

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/defender/default.mspx

If I were you, I would remove the beta version, reboot, and do a clean install.

* NOTE: Make sure your anti-virus is updated and running. Malware can disable security programs such as Windows Defender.

Message Edited by Bugbatter on 10-06-2008 10:56 AM

JAWill · Answer

Thanks so much. I figured it had something to do with security, and I do believe it's expired. We need to decide what protection we are going to use and this will force us to make a decision within a day or two! I have Norton 360 sitting on my desk, but one of our computers doesn't have the capability to run it, so we are considering the Verizon service.

I don't know if I can figure out how to "remove a beta version" but hopefully the link you gave me will tell me. Thanks again.

Bugbatter · Answer

The security that most ISP's provide as a package does not impress me.

Windows Defender and on-going updates are available for no additional charge to Windows XP and Windows Vista customers. You will be required to verify that you are using genuine Windows through a quick and easy online process called validation.

In addition, there are some very good free security programs (including anti-virus and firewalls) listed here:
http://www.dellcommunity.com/supportforums/board/message?board.id=si_virus&thread.id=66825

The usual way to uninstall WD is by using Add/Remove Programs via the Control Panel.

JAWill · Answer

Thank you for all your help, I will try these things!

Bugbatter · Answer

You're welcome. I'm glad we could help. :)

Windows General

Windows Defender failed to initialize

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