Troubleshooting “Windows SmartScreen Can’t Be Reached Right Now” Error

Are you relying on Windows SmartScreen to shield your computer from potential threats but finding yourself caught in the frustrating dilemma of the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error? When you encounter the message “SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” while attempting to install a program on Windows 10/11, it’s crucial to address this issue promptly. Fret not, as we’re here to guide you through the solution.

Microsoft places a paramount emphasis on security, and SmartScreen stands as a vital component in Windows 10/11. It operates as a cloud-based anti-malware tool, diligently safeguarding your device against malicious software and potentially harmful websites.

Now, diving into the problem itself: When you’re in the process of installing an application, SmartScreen may throw a wrench into your plans, displaying an error message that frustratingly reads, “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now.”

Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with four top-notch solutions to tackle this SmartScreen challenge. In the upcoming sections, we’ll walk you through each solution step by step, ensuring you can install your desired programs without hindrance. Your computer’s security is our priority, and together, we’ll conquer the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error.

What is Windows SmartScreen?

Incorporated into the Windows ecosystem from Windows 8 onwards, Windows SmartScreen is a valuable feature that acts as a guard, intercepting potentially suspicious files or applications during the download process, especially when utilizing Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer.

To initiate this safeguarding process, SmartScreen deploys a component called “smartscreen.exe,” which you can spot in the Task Explorer.

How Does Windows SmartScreen Operate?

Let’s delve into the mechanics of this security guardian. Imagine you’re trying to download an application via Microsoft Edge; Windows SmartScreen springs into action. It meticulously scrutinizes the application against a vast Microsoft database, a process that leads to one of three possible outcomes:

Case 1: If the application has a clean track record and is deemed safe based on prior interactions, SmartScreen permits it to proceed without any hindrance.

Case 2: When the application is a newcomer to the database, SmartScreen exercises caution. It doesn’t immediately label it as safe but instead raises a warning message. However, this warning can be bypassed if you’re confident in the source.

Case 3: If the application is associated with malicious intent and has a history of harm, SmartScreen takes immediate action, blocking it to prevent potential harm to your system.

The Challenge: “SmartScreen Can’t Be Reached Right Now”

While Windows SmartScreen is a crucial security feature, some users encounter an issue where they are met with the frustrating message “SmartScreen can’t be reached right now.” In the sections to follow, we’ll explore why this error occurs and, more importantly, how to resolve it effectively, ensuring your Windows SmartScreen continues to safeguard your system seamlessly. Your computer’s security is our top priority, and we’re here to guide you through any challenges you might face.

The “SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error may arise due to several potential factors, which include:

• Bad Internet Connection: A weak or unstable internet connection can hinder SmartScreen’s ability to access the necessary online databases, leading to this error.
• SmartScreen Disabled: In some cases, users might inadvertently disable SmartScreen, either intentionally or by mistake, which can trigger the error.
• Use of a Proxy Server: If your network utilizes a proxy server, it might interfere with SmartScreen’s ability to reach the required online resources, causing the error.
• Virus Attack: Malware or a virus on your system can compromise SmartScreen’s functionality, making it inaccessible and resulting in this error.

Corrupted User Profile: Issues within your user profile can disrupt various system functionalities, including SmartScreen. A corrupted profile might be a root cause of the error.

Identifying the specific cause in your situation is the first step towards resolving the “SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error. Once the cause is determined, you can take appropriate measures to rectify the issue and ensure your system’s security remains intact. In upcoming sections, we will provide detailed solutions for each of these potential causes to help you resolve the error effectively.

Resolving “Windows SmartScreen Can’t Be Reached” Error

Encountering the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error is a roadblock in your computer’s defense against malware and viruses. This issue restricts your ability to download files from both official and unofficial sources. But fear not, we’ve got the solutions you need to fix it. Here’s how:

Solution 1: Check Internet or Wi-Fi Connection

The “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error can sometimes be traced back to an issue with your Internet or Wi-Fi connection. Windows SmartScreen relies on an active and stable internet connection to function effectively. If your connection is not performing optimally, it can trigger the appearance of this error message.

Here’s how to address this issue:

Step 1: Verify Your Internet Connection: Begin by confirming that your internet or Wi-Fi connection is indeed active and functioning as it should. This can be done by attempting to access websites or checking if other online services are working without issues.

Step 2: Address Connectivity Problems: If you discover that your internet connection is unstable or not working correctly, you’ll need to troubleshoot and resolve the connectivity problems. Common solutions may include:

1. Restarting your modem and router.
2. Checking for any physical cable or connection issues.
3. Contacting your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for assistance if the problem persists.

Step 3: Reattempt SmartScreen: After ensuring that your internet connection is stable and functioning correctly, reattempt the task that triggered the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error. In many cases, resolving the connection issue effectively eliminates the error.

By addressing your internet or Wi-Fi connectivity issues, you pave the way for Windows SmartScreen to function as intended, enhancing your computer’s protection against potential threats. If, however, the error persists despite addressing the connection problem, you may want to explore the other solutions provided to resolve the issue effectively.

Solution 2:  Update Windows

Keeping your Windows operating system up to date is not only crucial for enhanced security but also often holds the key to resolving various system-related issues, including the “Windows SmartScreen Can’t Be Reached” error. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the steps to update Windows:

Step 1: Before proceeding with Windows updates, ensure your internet connection is stable and functioning correctly. A reliable connection is necessary to download and install updates effectively.

Step 2: Navigate to your computer’s “Settings.” You can typically access this by clicking the Windows icon in the taskbar and selecting the gear-shaped icon.

Step 3: In the “Settings” window, locate and click on “Update & Security.”

Step 4: Within the “Update & Security” section, you’ll find the “Windows Update” tab on the left-hand side. Click on it.

Step 5: Here, you will see an option to “Check for updates.” Click on this option.

Step 6: Windows will now scan for available updates. If updates are found, they will be listed, and you’ll have the option to download and install them. Make sure to select “Install” or “Download and install” to initiate the process.

Step 7: Once the updates have been downloaded and installed, you will likely be prompted to restart your computer to complete the process. It’s important to follow through with this step.

Step 8: After your computer restarts, check if the “Windows SmartScreen Can’t Be Reached” error still persists. In many cases, updating Windows effectively resolves this issue.

By following these steps, you not only keep your system secure and optimized but also significantly increase the chances of resolving the “Windows SmartScreen Can’t Be Reached” error. If, after updating Windows, the error lingers, you can explore other potential solutions tailored to your specific circumstances.

Solution 3: Verify SmartScreen Is Enabled

Another potential cause of the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error is the deactivation of the Windows SmartScreen feature, either intentionally by the user or due to the actions of a third-party application. To address this, it’s essential to confirm if SmartScreen is enabled. Follow these steps to check and enable SmartScreen if necessary:

Step 1: Launch the search bar in Cortana by typing “Windows Defender” and select the best-matched result.

Step 2: In the Windows Defender Security Center, navigate to “App & Browser Control” from the right pane.

Step 3: Ensure the following three options are set to “Warn.” If they are not, set them to “Warn”:

• Check apps and files
• SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge
• SmartScreen for Microsoft Store apps

Step 4: If you find that SmartScreen was previously disabled, restart your PC after making these adjustments to ensure the changes take effect.

Note: In some cases, even after performing these steps, you may still encounter the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error. In such situations, you may want to explore the following solution.

Tip: If you come across the error “This app has been blocked for your protection,” it might be necessary to temporarily disable Windows SmartScreen to proceed with your task. However, be cautious when doing so and only disable it for trusted applications to maintain your system’s security.

Solution 4: Enable SmartScreen in Group Policy (For Windows Pro Edition)

If you are using Windows 10 Pro or a Windows Pro edition and are still encountering the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error, you can enable Windows SmartScreen using Group Policy. Please note that these steps are specific to Windows Pro editions and won’t be applicable to Windows Home editions, as Group Policy is not available on Home versions of Windows 10/11. Here’s how to enable SmartScreen through Group Policy:

Step 1: Simultaneously press the Windows + R keys on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.

Step 2: Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to launch the Group Policy Editor.

Step 3: In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to the following path: Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> File Explorer.

Step 4: On the right pane, double-click Configure Windows Defender SmartScreen.

Step 5: Select Enabled, and then click OK to confirm.

Step 6: Close the Group Policy Editor.

Step 7: Reboot your PC.

Step 8: After your computer restarts, check if the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error has been resolved.

Please note that enabling SmartScreen through Group Policy can only be done if you have a Windows Pro edition. If you’re using a Home version of Windows 10/11, you should skip this method and explore other solutions to address the error effectively.

Solution 5: Disable Proxy Server

For some Windows users, the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error can be effectively resolved by disabling the use of a proxy server. Certain proxy servers can interfere with the SmartScreen component, rendering it unreachable. However, please note that this solution is only applicable if you are currently using a proxy server. If you are not using a proxy server, you can skip this method.

Here are the steps to disable the proxy server:

Step 1: Click on the Windows icon in the taskbar, and then select the Settings icon.

Step 2: In the Settings window, choose “Network & Internet.”

Step 3: On the left pane of the Network & Internet window, select “Proxy.” Scroll down the right pane and set the “Use a proxy server” option to “Off.”

Step 4: Reboot your PC.

After your computer restarts, check if the issue of “Windows SmartScreen is unreachable” has been resolved. Disabling the proxy server can often eliminate the interference that was causing the error.

Remember that this solution is only relevant if you are using a proxy server. If you are not using a proxy server and the error persists, you may need to explore other potential solutions to resolve it effectively.

Solution 6: Create a New User Profile

If you’ve tried the previous solutions and the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error continues to persist, it’s possible that your current user profile has become corrupted. In such cases, creating a new user profile can often resolve the issue. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Go to Start > Settings.

Step 2: Select “Accounts,” and then choose “Family and other users.”

Step 3: Under “Other users,” select “Add account.”

Step 4: At the next screen, click “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.”

Step 5: Now, select “Add a user without a Microsoft account.”

Step 6: In the “Who’s going to use this PC” section, enter a preferred username and password in the blank fields, and then click “Next.”

Step 7: Select “Change account type” from the drop-down menu on the newly created account.

Step 8: Change the account type to “Administrator,” and then press “OK.”

Step 9: Close all open programs and reboot your computer.

Step 10: At the Sign-in screen, select the new account to log in and check if the “SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error appears. If the error is resolved, you can transfer your files and settings from the old account to the new one to complete the process.

Creating a new user profile is often an effective way to address the issue if it’s related to profile corruption. However, make sure to back up your important files and settings from the old account to ensure a smooth transition to the new profile.

Solution 7: Scan Your System

If none of the previous solutions have successfully resolved the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error, it’s crucial to consider the possibility of malware or viruses causing this issue. Some malicious software can alter system settings, including disabling or changing permissions related to Windows SmartScreen. To address this potential threat and restore the functionality of SmartScreen, performing a full system scan is essential. Here’s how to do it:

Perform a Full Virus Scan: Use your installed and up-to-date antivirus software to run a full system scan. Make sure it’s set to scan all files and directories on your computer. If your antivirus software identifies any threats, follow the recommended actions to remove or quarantine them.

Use Windows Security: If you don’t have third-party antivirus software, you can use Windows Security, the built-in antivirus and security software in Windows. To access Windows Security, click on the Windows icon in the taskbar, type “Windows Security” in the search bar, and select it. In Windows Security, go to “Virus & threat protection” and run a full scan. Follow the prompts to remove or quarantine any identified threats.

Reboot Your Computer: After completing the full system scan, reboot your computer to ensure that any detected threats are effectively dealt with.

Running a full system scan is a critical step in safeguarding your computer against potential malware or viruses that may be interfering with the operation of Windows SmartScreen. By eliminating these threats, you not only resolve the error but also enhance the overall security of your system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error can be a frustrating issue, but it can often be resolved by following a series of solutions, you can effectively address the “Windows SmartScreen can’t be reached right now” error and maintain the security and functionality of your computer. Remember to back up important data and settings when necessary and use caution when altering security settings to protect your system.