Windows 11 is currently available as a part of Microsoft’s early access Windows Insider Program. As with any early access, some users have encountered bugs and other issues along the way. The latest problem seems to cause difficulties with the Windows Security application. According to Windows Latest, the bug is noticeable in Windows 11 Build 22000.160 or older, and it keeps the app from opening when you select it in Windows Settings. Multiple users have reported the issue, which appears to pop up whenever users try to select options in the Windows Security section of the Privacy & Security menu. The error says, “You’ll need a new app to open this windowsdefender link,” and then asks users to look for an app in the Microsoft Store. Essentially, this bug cuts users off from checking Windows Defender, which acts as the built-in antivirus program for Windows. Luckily, there appears to be a fix for the issue, though users will need to launch Windows PowerShell as an administrator and then paste in a command string to accomplish it. The Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.SecHealthUI -AllUsers | Reset-AppxPackage command string should resolve the issue and allow you to use Windows Security Application again. It’s unclear when Microsoft will release an update to address the problem, but for now, users can reset it themselves to regain access to Windows Defender.
