Microsoft Edge includes a heavy-handed security feature known as Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. Whenever you attempt to download an executable file (.exe or .msi) from the internet, SmartScreen intercepts the file, scans its digital signature, and checks it against a global database of known software. If the software is new, obscure, or created by an independent developer who didn’t pay for an expensive code-signing certificate, Edge will automatically block the download, throwing a massive red “Unsafe” warning.
While this is an excellent tool for protecting novice users from malware, it is incredibly frustrating for developers, beta testers, and power users who frequently download safe, open-source software that simply hasn’t gained enough “reputation” in Microsoft’s database yet.
You can disable the SmartScreen filter to prevent Edge from acting as a digital nanny, allowing you to download any file you choose.
How to Turn Off Microsoft Defender SmartScreen
You can disable the file-blocking feature directly in the Edge Privacy settings.
- Open the Microsoft Edge browser.
- Click the three horizontal dots in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings from the drop-down menu.
- In the left-hand navigation sidebar, click on Privacy, search, and services.
- Scroll all the way down the page until you reach the Security section.
- Look for a toggle switch labeled Microsoft Defender SmartScreen.
- Turn this toggle to the Off position.
- (Optional) Just below it, also turn off Block potentially unwanted apps if you frequently download niche software utilities that Edge falsely flags as adware.
With SmartScreen disabled, Edge will act like a traditional web browser. It will blindly download any file you click on and save it to your hard drive without interference. Be sure to use your own antivirus software (like the built-in Windows Security) to manually scan files you are unsure about.