How to Fix Windows Defender Error Code 0x80016CFA

Is your computer displaying an error code 0x80016CFA when you try to run Windows Defender? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! This error can prevent you from running a virus scan or updating the software, leaving your computer vulnerable to threats. In this article, we’ll provide you with simple steps to fix this error and get your Windows Defender up and running smoothly again.

Is Windows Defender Error 0x80016CFA Real or a Scam?

The error code 0x80016cfa has been causing confusion and panic among many users. However, it’s essential to know that this error code is not a real issue with your computer’s security, but a fraudulent alert that pretends to be a technical support message. This type of scam usually occurs after downloading third-party software or installing ad-supported extensions or plugins. When the error message pops up, it takes over the entire screen and becomes frozen, making it impossible to exit by clicking the X or OK button. It’s vital not to fall for this scam and instead follow the methods provided below to fix the Windows Defender error code 0x80016cfa.

Reboot Windows

Save any unsaved work that you may have open.
Click on the launch menu and click on the “ Power ” icon.
Click on “ renew ” to renew your computer.
stay for your computer to turn off and also turn it back on again.
Once your computer has renewed, log in to your account.
Try running Windows Defender again to see if the error law has been resolved.

Perform Clean Boot to Resolve Windows Defender Error 0x80016CFA

Press the Windows crucial R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
Type “ msconfig ” in the Run dialog box and click on “ OK ”.
In the System Configuration window, click on the “ Services ” tab.
Check the box next to “ Hide all Microsoft services ”.
Click on “ Disable all ” to disable all the third- party services that are presently running on your computer.
Click on the “ incipiency ” tab.
Click on “ Open Task Manager ”.
In the Task Manager window, click on each incipiency item and also click on “ Disable ” to disable them.
Close the Task Manager window and click on “ OK ” in the System Configuration window.

Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Click on the launch menu and type “ troubleshoot settings ” in the hunt box.
Click on “ Troubleshoot settings ” from the hunt results.
Scroll down to the “ Get up and running ” section and
Click on “ Windows Update ”.
Click on “ Run the troubleshooter ”.
The troubleshooter will descry and diagnose any problems related to Windows Update.
Follow the on- screen instructions to fix any issues that the troubleshooter has linked.

Run SFC and CHKDSK Scans to Fix Windows Defender Error 0x80016CFA

Press the Windows crucial X on your keyboard to open the Power stoner menu.
Click on “ Command Prompt( Admin) ” to open the Command Prompt with executive boons.
Type “ sfc/ scannow ” in the Command Prompt window and press Enter.
Stay for the SFC checkup to complete. This may take some time.
Once the checkup is complete, type “ chkdsk/ f/ r ” in the Command Prompt window and press Enter.
You may be urged to schedule a checkup for the coming time you start yourcomputer.However, type “ Y ” and press Enter, If so.
Renew your computer to begin the CHKDSK checkup.
stay for the CHKDSK checkup to complete. This may take some time.
Stay for the CHKDSK scan or checkup to complete. This may take some time.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, encountering Windows Defender Error Code 0x80016CFA can be frustrating and disruptive to your computer operation. still, with the styles mentioned in this artcle, similar to running the troubleshooter, streamlining Windows Defender, and disabling third- party antivirus software, you can fluently fix this error.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I permanently remove Windows Defender from my computer to avoid this error?

It is not recommended to permanently remove Windows Defender from your computer, as it is a crucial component of Windows security and provides important protection against viruses and malware.

What should I do if updating Windows Defender does not fix the error?

If updating Windows Defender does not fix the error, try running a system file checker scan to fix any corrupted system files that may be causing the error.

What causes Windows Defender Error Code 0x80016CFA?

This error can be caused by various factors, such as outdated Windows Defender definitions, conflicts with third-party antivirus software, or corrupted system files.