I receive a warning that Windows Defender is off on Bowdoin computers

Issue

A warning message pops up on Bowdoin computers running Windows 10 or Windows 11 stating that Windows Defender has been turned off. Sometimes the message states that Windows Defender has been disabled.

Environment

Windows 10 or Windows 11 on Bowdoin-issuedcomputers

Answer

Windows Defender has been replaced with Falcon Sensor by CrowdStrike as the default antivirus for faculty and staff on campus. Most operating systems won't inform their user of the change, however some older Windows computers may issue a warning that Windows Defender is not working or unavailable. This means that CrowdStrike has taken over as the primary antivirus. This message can be ignored.

 

25% helpful - 4 reviews