Virus protection is a critical layer of computer security. When combined with safe browsing habits and anti-malware applications, virus protection helps to keep your personal information safe and your computer in full working order. If you can't keep your virus protection running, you can't guarantee the safety of the computer or the data it holds.
Software Conflicts
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If your virus protection is shutting off or refusing to run, it's possible that a software conflict exists on your PC. This can occur if you already have an anti-virus software running and try to install another. When the two applications attempt to perform the same functions, issues arise that prevent either from effectively performing their tasks. Ensure that you have only one anti-virus application running at any given time.
Virus Interference
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Intelligent viruses can disable your anti-virus software if the software fails to catch the virus upon its initial entrance to your PC. By keeping your anti-virus offline, the virus ensures it cannot be removed. Boot your computer in Safe Mode and attempt to run the anti-virus without interference from other applications to see if a virus has penetrated your defenses. Safe Mode is accessible through the Settings menu in Windows 8. Click “Change PC Settings,” select “General,” click “Advanced Startup,” and then choose “Restart Now.” Select “Troubleshoot,” click “Startup Settings,” click “Restart” and select the Safe startup option.
Settings Problems
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If your anti-virus isn't coming online with startup, it's possible the software's settings prevent it from doing so. Open the Settings menu for your anti-virus software and ensure that the application is set to run when the computer first turns on. Additionally, open Task Manager (CTRL-Shift-ESC) and check to ensure that the anti-virus application is set to “Enabled” on the “Startup” tab. Restart your computer to see if this resolves the issue.
Troubleshooting Steps
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Nailing down the exact reason a program isn't working is difficult, given the wide range of anti-virus applications and PC hardware configurations on the market. However, some troubleshooting steps are universal when sorting out software issues. Try uninstalling and reinstalling the anti-virus program, ensure it is updated to its most recent version, and perform a system update to verify that Windows 8 is also up-to-date. Uninstall any new programs to determine if they are causing the complication. Finally, use the Windows 8 System Restore (see Resources) to return your PC's settings to a time before the issue began.
