Configure Microsoft Defender SmartScreen
The `SmartScreenEnabled` value enables Microsoft Defender SmartScreen in Microsoft Edge.
since 0.9.8.11
Purpose
Show registry keys (1)
HKLM\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Edge\SmartScreenEnabled
The SmartScreenEnabled value enables Microsoft Defender SmartScreen in Microsoft Edge. Its data type is REG_DWORD; a value of 1 turns the feature on and enforces the setting for the Edge installation on the computer. Users cannot then disable SmartScreen through the browser settings.
SmartScreen evaluates visited sites and downloaded applications or installers using reputation data and other security signals. Edge displays warnings when a site is known for phishing or malware distribution, or when a downloaded file is classified as malicious or unknown.
Notes
Additional effects
The setting is not profile-specific and therefore applies to all Edge profiles associated with the installation. It also applies to InPrivate browsing and Guest mode.
For reputation checks, Edge sends relevant information about the URL or file to the Microsoft Defender SmartScreen service over a TLS-encrypted connection. Results returned by the service may be stored locally on the device.
Security
Enabling SmartScreen adds reputation-based protection against phishing sites, malware, and suspicious downloads. It does not replace malware scanning by Microsoft Defender Antivirus or another antivirus product, nor does it establish that every site or file is safe.
This registry value alone does not prevent users from bypassing individual SmartScreen warnings. Separate Edge policies control whether users may proceed past site warnings or keep warned-about downloads. Blocking potentially unwanted applications is also controlled by a separate policy.
Possible side effects
Sites or files without sufficient reputation can produce warnings even when they are legitimate. This can require additional user decisions for valid pages or downloads. Reputation checks also require communication with the Microsoft service.
Notes
The policy is supported in Microsoft Edge on Windows starting with Edge version 77 and supports dynamic policy refresh.
Microsoft documentation
Microsoft Learn: Microsoft Edge policy SmartScreenEnabled
Microsoft Learn: Microsoft Edge support for Microsoft Defender SmartScreen