How To Solve Windows Defender Error Code 0x800704ec?

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Windows Defender Error Code 0x800704ec

Are you getting the Windows Defender error code 0x800704ec? There are several reasons behind this error. Usually, it occurs when you turn on Windows Defender.

Reason For The Error Code 0x800704ec:

  • Third-party antivirus software
  • Corrupted Group Policy
  • Damaged Registry files

Keep reading the instructions below to fix the Windows Defender error.

Solution 1: Enable Windows Defender Services

  • On your Windows computer, open the Run command box by pressing Windows + R.
  • Type ‘services.msc’ in the Run dialog box and hit the Enter key. Doing so will open Windows Services.
  • Locate the Windows Defender service in the Services window.
  • Give a right-click on the service and select the Start option.
  • Next, restart your computer and check if the error code reappears.

Solution 2: Change Registry Entries

  • Click the Start menu available at the bottom-left corner of the desktop.
  • Type ‘regedit’ in the search panel and hit the Enter key.
  • Click to open Registry Editor from the search results.
  • In the Registry Editor window, go to the ‘HKey_Local_Machine\\Software\\Policies\\Microsoft\\Windows Defender’ location.
  • Ensure that the Windows Defender option is selected in the left-side panel.
  • Select the DisableAntiSpyware key and remove its value.
  • Change the REG_DWORD value from 1 to 0.
  • Restart your computer to fix the Windows Defender error code 0x800704ec.

Solution 3: Change The Group Policy Settings

  • To begin with, log in to your computer with administrator rights.
  • Click the Start menu and type ‘gpedit.msc’ in the search field. Hit the Enter key to launch the Local Group Policy Editor.
  • Click on Local Computer Policy and select Administrative Templates.
  • Choose Windows Components and select Windows Defender.
  • Double-click the Turn off Windows Defender tab on the right-side panel.
  • In the pop-up window, select the Disable option.
  • Click OK to save the changes.
  • Restart your computer and check if the problem has been resolved.
  • If the Windows Defender error code 0x800704ec reappears, uninstall the recently installed antivirus software and check for any corrupted files on your computer.